Adventures of a rhino

Press, 12 January 1987, Page 6

Adventures of a rhino

■ 'A and a veterinary suraeoc until 3 pjn. to quMtiy stalk Mapenri wlthlajhe closed perk and tranquiltee her before returning her to an enclosure, said the public relations officer, Mrs Bev Shepherd. . ' . , With such a thlfck hide, Mapenri could be traaquillsed only by a dart shot into the softer leg area below the shoulder. “The wardens ai>4 vet had to get alongside her in a Jeep to be able to shoot her in the right area,” Mrs Shepherd said. “They worked quietly and steadily throughout the day trying to get her to return to her enclosure.. * “During the afternoon

•he became distressed taf , distort/ ifand caused : Once the tranqulliser j had taken effect Mapenri was put into a net and taken by bay loader to her pen where she was revived. Throughout the day the other animate were kept . Inside their cages and enctaeures for their safety. Although park staff advertised the closing of the park on the radio, some people arrived for the afternoon lion feeding. Mrs Shepherd said. “We thank those who Came for their consideration and understanding on being turned away.” It was not yet clear how Mapenri escaped. She is • one of three white rhinos introduced to the park In May last. year. ■ .?■