Rhino-Project in Limpopo-Lipadi
Active assistance with the release of rhinos into the wild in Limpopo Lipadi Wilderness Reserve
Problem definition
Integrating morer rhinos into an existing rhino group is a challenge! This is a new story and there is little literature and few projects realized elsewhere. We are in fairly uncharted territory.
Solution approach
- Rhinos "reintroduced" to the wild
- Security measures regarding poachers and transit traffic
- Longer-term controlling of the rhinos
Proceeding
Martina read up on the subject in depth and attended various online seminars and online congresses. In addition, Duane Jacobsz supported us with his vast knowledge.
Jost racked his brains over processes and developed two programs, which Stefan programmed.
Writing a scientific rhino report
The aim was to acclimatize the rhinos to their new environment in Limpopo Lipadi in a healthy way and to increase the safety of the animals. In addition, Dr. Martina Glatzl wrote a scientific report on the entire process of integration. This report should show all the requirements and difficulties with possible solutions.
From our point of view, this would have been the cornerstone and the unique opportunity for Limpopo Lipadi to distinguish itself as a specialized rhino resort.
Software - Applikation
The requirements in a reserve are huge in all respects. Data is eminent for many decisions. As this data is usually not available, we decided to use specific software.
We used a process of elimination to check all known systems. In the end, we came to the conclusion that the existing systems either did not meet our requirements or were simply too complicated to use. Many systems are offered by NGOs and are therefore linked to several companies. This is very tricky with critical real-time data - such as Rhino locations. It is not known who has access to the data and where it is stored. It is also not known to what standards the data and data servers are secured. For us, this was a no-go and we decided to develop our own software.
1. Security
- Digital entry control
- Just-in-time data on who is in the reserve
- Triggers an alarm if the person does not report at the required time
- Application via QR-Code
2. Rhino-Watch
- When was wich rhino sighted
- Condition and aggression level
- Groups etc.
- Recording must wortk wothout WIFI
- All data just-in-time
3. Game-Count
- Recording of sightings
- Recording of young animals
- All data just-in-time
4. Reserve
- Record water levels
- Water consumption
- Fence damage
- Poaching
- All data just-in-time
- Hunting
Introduction
The introduction was very time-consuming. Not all employees speak English and some don't need to read it every day. But we didn't want to exclude any employees. So we adapted the software for intuitive operation. Instead of passwords, we used a login with a QR-Code badge, pictograms instead of labels, red points instead of the word red etc.
We were able to recruit Rindi Jacobsz for the training. She had endless patience to check processes, make corrections and provide input. As a trainee, she put in a huge amount of work for no pay. We would like to take this opportunity to thank her once again.
The employees were quickly enthusiastic about the applications. It is easy to use and they benefited from the just-in-time data. Of course, there were also those who hindered us. But all in all, it was a very positive experience!
The technical problems were also huge - no Internet! Try explaining this to a programmer in Switzerland. But we were able to solve everything with flying colors! Once again, a big thank you to Stefan Züttel.
Success
The apps were used from April 2022. First as a project, then as a professional application. The test phase was completed in May 2023. In one month, we checkt 10'000 Persons from Gate to Gate. At this point, we presented the application to two professors from the University of Botswana. Needless to say, they were enthusiastic about it. The system was then operated independently by the employees for 6 months without any downtime! The acceptance among the employees was huge, as the application is very simple.
Hand over to a compagny
Unfortunately, the general manager at "our" reserve changed and was unable to keep up with digitalization. Although all applications were operated independently and successfully by the employees for 6 months without our support, our reserve came to a standstill in September 2023.
All the development work, the great efforts and the financial outlay came to nothing within seconds as a result of a short-sighted management decision.
Although we were never interested in commercialization - we developed the application specifically for "our" Limpopo-Lipadi resort and made it available free of charge - we were forced to find another solution. We handed over the application as a license to the company Digital Reserve Management.
We are very pleased that the government of Botswana examined and approved our application within a very short time and wants to use it in its national reserves.
This shows once again that the service is underestimated in one's own environment, but appreciated all the more by foreigners.
Findings and conclusion
In addition to collecting data, there is another crucial aspect: employees recognize the importance of their job. The gate guard doesn't just have to open the gate and receive a reprimand because everything is going too slowly. No, he records data and if the vehicle does not appear at the checkpoint within the specified time, a silent alarm is triggered and the vehicle is searched for! The APU guides not only search for the animals, he also record their condition. This allows you to recognize very quickly if something is wrong. Example: Two bulls are suddenly fighting. The reason is that a female has been looking for a new feeding place and has crossed a territory. As one of the bulls followed the female, a massive territorial fight broke out. Without tagging, we would not have understood this behavior.
The same applies to reading water levels or fence repairs. Everything is recorded and helps with improvements. People can be checked throughout the reserve to see whether they have a permit and whether they are allowed to stay in this sector.
We have seen how employees have worked constructively with a tablet, even though they don't have a mobile themselves! During scoring, we found that the oldest employee made the fewest mistakes. He wanted to make a difference and recognized the importance of his work.
The introduction of the software gave the entire workforce a positive jolt. They were the first in Africa to be able to record data digitally themselves and they were very proud of this.
Last Update
2024-06 A Resort in Namibia tries to work with our Apps
2024-03 Another integrated rhino has given birth to a cub.
2024-02 An integrated rhino has given birth to a young. The gestation period of rhinos is 15-18 months.
2024-02 The application was sold to a resort for the first time by our partner. Congratulations!