Monarto Safari Park has announced an evolution to its rhino conservation program, stepping away from previously discussed large-scale international relocation plans and refocusing its efforts on long-term breeding, genetics and on-site population management.
This change reflects a broader shift in global wildlife conservation conditions, while reaffirming its ongoing commitment to protecting rhinos and supporting their future survival.
For more than 20 years, Monarto Safari Park has cared for and bred rhinos as part of its wider conservation work. That role will continue, but with a refined focus on managing the existing crash of animals already at the park rather than pursuing the once-flagged large-scale relocation model.
Monarto Safari Park is home to seven rhinos, six Southern White Rhinoceros and one critically endangered Black Rhinoceros, split between Wild Africa and internal park habitats. Zoos SA says the existing crash of rhinos remains central to the program, with breeding and genetics continuing to play a major role in maintaining genetically valuable regional insurance populations.
The shift in direction has been driven by several factors, including changes in South African export policy, the winding up of the Australian Rhino Project, and the increasing complexity, logistical, financial and regulatory of moving rhinos internationally at scale.
Zoos SA has also pointed to a broader rethink in international conservation priorities, with greater emphasis now placed on targeted, science-led breeding programs and smaller, carefully managed animal transfers between accredited zoological institutions.
“This is about making sure Monarto Safari Park continues to lead in rhino conservation, and adapting our approach as the science and global conditions evolve,” shared Zoos SA Chief Executive, Dr Phil Ainsley.
“We understand that many supporters were excited by the prospect of larger-scale rhino relocations, and we want to be transparent about why that pathway is no longer realistic. Conservation strategies must evolve over time, and our focus is on ensuring Monarto Safari Park continues to contribute meaningfully to rhino conservation for the long term.”
Any future rhino transfers into or out of Monarto Safari Park are expected to be small-scale and highly controlled, guided by international breeding recommendations, genetic needs, animal welfare standards and species availability across global zoo networks.
Despite the change in approach, Zoos SA says the future of rhino conservation at Monarto Safari Park remains strong. The focus will continue to be on maintaining stable, genetically diverse populations and contributing to broader international conservation efforts through collaboration with zoo partners.
At the centre of that future capability is the $1.1 million Anthony Taylor Quarantine Facility, which is expected to become operational in the coming months. The facility will strengthen Australia’s ability to safely and ethically manage biosecure wildlife transfers, opening up future conservation opportunities across a wider range of species.
Zoos SA says this infrastructure positions Monarto Safari Park to respond flexibly to future conservation needs, even as large-scale rhino relocation plans are phased out. Ultimately, Monarto Safari Park says its commitment to rhino conservation has not diminished, it has simply evolved.
The focus now is on long-term sustainability, genetic resilience and making sure the park continues to play a meaningful role in global rhino protection well into the future.
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