Download Management Plan for the Reintroduction of Black Rhino to Sera

SERA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY
Management Plan for the
Reintroduction of Black Rhino to Sera
Wildlife Conservancy
Revised February 2011
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents .............................................................................................................................................................. 1
i
About this document ......................................................................................................................................... 2
ii
Letters of commitment ...................................................................................................................................... 3
1.0
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................................... 6
2.0
Conservation measures for Black rhino in Kenya ................................................................................................. 7
3.0
Sera Wildlife Conservancy (Sera) ......................................................................................................................... 8
3.1
Sera objectives .................................................................................................................................................. 8
3.2
Institutional and Management Capacity ............................................................................................................ 8
3.3
Land Tenure ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
4.0
Establishment of a Black Rhino Sanctuary in Sera.............................................................................................. 10
4.1
Rhino Sanctuary Management Structure ......................................................................................................... 10
4.2
Sanctuary size, stocking rate & carrying capacity ........................................................................................... 11
4.3
Water availability ............................................................................................................................................ 13
4.4
Security ........................................................................................................................................................... 13
4.5
Fencing ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
4.6
Rhino Monitoring ............................................................................................................................................ 15
4.7
Monitoring habitat & impact of other herbivores ............................................................................................ 15
4.8
Disease ............................................................................................................................................................ 16
4.9
Predation ......................................................................................................................................................... 16
4.10
Community awareness .................................................................................................................................... 17
5.0
Financial strategy ................................................................................................................................................. 18
5.1
Financial Management .................................................................................................................................... 18
5.2
Funding ........................................................................................................................................................... 18
5.3
Budget Summary ............................................................................................................................................. 18
6.0
Role of Partners ................................................................................................................................................... 19
7.0
Annexes ............................................................................................................................................................... 21
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
I
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
2
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
II
LETTERS OF COMMITMENT
3
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
4
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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1.0 Executive Summary
The black rhino (Diceros bicornis) is listed as Critically Endangered (IUCN) and on Appendix I of
CITES. The eastern black rhino (Diceros bicornis michaeli) is endemic to Kenya where the only significant
population of this sub-species remains; Kenya holds approximately 85% of the world’s remaining wild
population of this species. The history and status of black rhino in Kenya has been well documented
with historically black rhino occurring throughout Kenya, except in the immediate coastal strip and in
the densely settled areas around Lake Victoria. In the 1960s, black rhino were still widespread although
range and numbers had declined, however it was not until the 1970s that commercial poaching of black
rhino occurred at such a scale to cause the catastrophic decline of the species. In 1970 the estimated
population of black rhino in Kenya was 20,000 individuals; by 1990 this had dropped to less than 400
individuals, a 98% decline in 20 years.
Community-based conservation has gained momentum in the last decade, particularly in northern
Kenya where there are now fifteen (15) community conservancies under the umbrella of the Northern
Rangelands Trust. These conservancies are providing a vital role in the conservation of other
endangered species such as Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi), hirola (Beatragus hunteri), African wild dog
(Lycaon pictus) and African elephant (Loxodonta africana). There is a growing recognition of the role these
conservancies are playing in conservation, and particularly endangered species conservation, which can
logically be extended to include black rhino.
The long-term vision for rhino conservation as identified within the Conservation and Management
Strategy for the Black Rhino (2007 – 2011) envisions ‘2,000 eastern black rhino conserved in natural habitat in
Kenya’ under the current national strategy for black rhino conservation. One of the strategic objectives
under this strategy is to ‘promote establishment of community rhino conservation through partnerships and the
generation of goodwill from neighbourhoods to all rhino conservation areas’. Community Conservancies within
Northern Rangelands Trust have indicated a desire to establish community rhino sanctuaries for the
long-term conservation of Black rhino.
This document serves to outline the institutional arrangements, management capacity, commitment,
long-term sustainability and likelihood of success for the reintroduction of Black rhino into the
historical range of Sera Wildlife Conservancy. The proposal is to reintroduce 20 Black rhino into a
fenced sanctuary of 120 km2 within the core conservation area of Sera. The goal of this project is
twofold:
1. to contribute to the national vision for Black rhino conservation by ensuring population
growth rate of not less than 5% per year; and
2. to achieve a local vision of returning the species to its ‘homeland’ for the benefit of both
the species and the local community.
The desired future condition for Black rhino in Sera is to have a free-ranging population within an
intensive protection zone (IPZ) in the vicinity of the conservancy. Rhinos will be released from the
fenced breeding sanctuary into the IPZ as the population increased beyond the carrying capacity of the
sanctuary.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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2.0 Conservation measures for Black rhino in Kenya
The focus of black rhino conservation in Kenya since the 1990s has been on the development of highlyprotected, small-scale, fenced rhino sanctuaries providing intensive protection for the species both in
government and private wildlife areas. The success of these sanctuaries has led to the slow recovery of the
species; the national population estimate in 2009 was 635 individuals. Rhino populations in all sanctuaries are
breeding well and through improved biological management are projected to increase at a rate of at least 6% per
annum in future. The only unfenced populations that remain are in Tsavo East National Park, Maasai Mara
National Reserve, Chyulu Hills National Park and Tsavo West Intensive Protection Zone. Black rhino
populations in these areas have not recovered as well as those in the sanctuaries; however, this is partly explained
by the difficulty in effectively monitoring remnant rhinos in these areas in order to accurately estimate numbers,
as well as poaching threat in Tsavo East in particular.
With gradually increasing populations, and the ecological carrying capacity for black rhino being attained in most
sanctuaries in the near future, there is a need to secure new areas which have the potential to accommodate large
populations in the long-term. The long-term vision for rhino conservation is identified as ‘2,000 eastern black
rhino conserved in natural habitat in Kenya’ under the current national strategy for black rhino conservation. One of
the strategic objectives under this strategy is to ‘promote establishment of community rhino conservation through partnerships
and the generation of goodwill from neighbourhoods to all rhino conservation areas’. Within this objective a specific indicator
of success is to identify potential community rhino conservation areas by the end of 2008.
Community-based conservation has gained momentum in the last decade, particularly in northern Kenya where
there are now fifteen (15) community conservancies under the umbrella of the Northern Rangelands Trust
(NRT), covering an estimated 12,000 km2 and representing approximately 72,000 community members. The
inhabitants of these conservancies are semi-nomadic pastoralists, whose livelihood provides an opportunity for
wildlife conservation that is all but lost in much of the country where human settlements and agriculture are a
barrier to conservation. These conservancies are providing a vital role in the conservation of other endangered
species such as Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi), hirola (Beatragus hunteri), African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) and African
elephant (Loxodonta africana). Community conservation, through the network of conservancies in northern
Kenya is addressing conservation at a landscape level, creating secure access for wildlife through integrated
wildlife and livestock management across a vast area. Building a foundation of security is a necessary step in
ensuring successful wildlife conservation and economic development in the region, and this is being successfully
achieved by these conservancies. There is a growing recognition of the role these conservancies are playing in
conservation, and particularly endangered species conservation, which should logically be extended to include
black rhino in the near future.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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3.0 Sera Wildlife Conservancy (Sera)
Sera Wildlife Conservancy is situated in north-eastern Samburu District and was established in 2002 and
registered as a Trust in 2005. The conservancy is situated on Sere Olipi and Losesia group ranches owned by
communities who inhabit this area, representing an estimated 7,200 individuals. The conservancy’s conservation
focus covers an area of 524 km2, where conservancy scouts carry out wildlife monitoring and security, controlled
grazing management is practiced and no settlements are allowed. The conservation area is divided into a core
area of approximately 120 km2 where no livestock grazing is permitted (this coincides with the future rhino
sanctuary area) and a buffer zone of approximately 404 km2 where livestock grazing is managed and restricted to
dry season grazing only. There are no permanent settlements within or adjacent to the conservancy; Sere Olipi,
the nearest centre, is approximately 23 km west of the conservancy. The conservancy headquarters are situated
at Kauro on the western boundary of the conservation area and consist of an office, radio room, staff housing
and a community-run tourist guest house.
3.1
Sera objectives
The aim of the conservancy is to improve livelihoods of resident communities through wildlife conservation.
The main objectives of Sera are to:
• Establish procedures for running the Trust to ensure there is grassroots involvement in decision-making
• Improve levels of environmental awareness amongst children and adults in the Sere Olipi and Losesia and
surrounding areas
• Improve the physical security for wildlife, people and livestock in the area
• Develop systems for revenue generation from the natural resources of the area that benefit local people
through creation of employment and receipt of funds in a way that does not damage the natural resource
base
• Maintain and enhance the natural resources of the area
• Sera will continue to work with the Northern Rangelands Trust to standardise their research and monitoring
activities.
The conservancy lies in an area of historical insecurity, an interface between the Rendille, Samburu and Borana
people. Since the inception of Sera, security for people and wildlife has greatly improved, although livestock theft
between rival ethnic groups continues. The last report of elephant poaching was in 2005. This conservation
initiative has been a driving force for the development of peace between these neighboring tribes with a joint
grazing committee established in 2007 including representatives from all three communities. The joint
committee assists in mediating conflicts, recovering stolen livestock and maintaining dialogue between the
different communities. The establishment of Sera acted as a catalyst for the development of conservation
initiatives with the Rendille to the north (Melako Community Conservancy established in 2005) and Borana
communities to the east (Biliqo-Bulesa Conservancy established in 2007). These three conservancies form the
Greater Sera Region and are providing a foundation for improved security and peace over a vast area of almost
3,000 km2.
3.2
Institutional and Management Capacity
The conservancy structure follows that of all NRT conservancies, with a community-elected Board of Trustees
overseeing the management of the conservancy. Currently SWC employs a total of 36 personnel including:
• Conservancy Manager
• Accountant
• Head of Security
• 23 x Security Scouts
• 4 x Radio Operators
• 2 x Drivers
• 2 x Tourism venture staff
• 2 x Night guards
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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To date, financial support to Sera has come through USAID who have funded core operational costs since 2004
and have committed a funding the conservancy until the end of 2011. Another donor, Zoos South Australia, is
likely to also provide long-term funding to the conservancy beginning in 2011. Donor funding will continue to
play a vital role in supporting community conservancies if they are to operate at the level required for effective
biodiversity conservation. The conservancy covers a large area and is creating a secure and enabling
environment for economic development in a historically insecure region which has been marginalized both
economically and politically.
Currently, Sera achieves approximately US$ 6-8,000 per year from tourism through camping and the Kauro
Guest House; a small, community-owned and managed self-catering facility. Of this 40% is reinvested into
conservancy operating costs and 60% is retained for community development priorities. Further tourism
investment is needed to increase revenue in order to assist in the financial sustainability of the conservancy and
increase benefits to the constituent communities. NRT is actively seeking advice and partnerships for tourism
development in Sera.
NRT provides on-going governance and institutional support to Sera to ensure accountability, transparency,
equitable distribution of revenue and effective management of the conservancy for both biodiversity
conservation, economic and social development.
The key principles for institutional development include:
• Establishment of a democratically elected Board/committee with rotation of tenure every three years
• Gender representation on the Board
• Recurrent training of Board members in governance and leadership skills
• Creation of simple, clear organisational structure with separation of the traditional community structures
(e.g. Group Ranch) from the Community Conservancy; roles are clearly defined and agreed upon
• Recruitment of skilled management staff with high standards of training with further education available to
Community Conservancy staff
• Democratic process of revenue distribution through a community Annual General Meeting
• Annual audit by highly regarded, independent auditing firms
• Statutory reporting
• Allocation of 40% from a Community Conservancy’s wildlife-based income for its operating budget, with
the balance going to community development activities.
3.3
Land Tenure
Sera Conservancy is situated on group ranches within Uaso division of Samburu District. The Conservancy is
owned by the local pastoralist Samburu communities representing an estimated 7,200 individuals.
The Conservancy falls within two group ranches, Sere Olipi and Losesia. The two group ranches are in the
process of completing group ranches registration process and obtaining group ranches title deeds giving them
ownership of the land. The proposed rhino sanctuary falls across both group ranches.
The Sera Conservancy community have committed to signing an easement agreement, setting aside land for the
rhino sanctuary and endorsement for the proposed rhino sanctuary has also been approved by a full Council
meeting of Samburu County Council (see letters of endorsement pages 3 - 5).
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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4.0 Establishment of a Black Rhino Sanctuary in Sera
At a Board meeting in March 2008, the Sera Board of Trustees endorsed the planned reintroduction of rhino
into the Conservancy. This has been followed by lengthy community awareness meetings led by the
Conservancy as well as habitat, veterinary and security assessments which were carried out by KWS in 2009 and
2010 (Annexes 2-5) and recommendations from each of these assessments have been incorporated into this
Management Plan to guide sanctuary size and carrying capacity, stocking levels for initial phase of reintroduction,
security and monitoring plans. Additionally a Conservation Action Plan (CAP) was held with Sera Board and
management staff to identify the vision, threats and strategies for successful Black rhino conservation which also
serves as a basis for this document (Annex 6).
In order for a re-introduction of black rhino to be considered, the original cause of extermination of the
population, which is poaching in this region, must be removed or the threat reduced to such a level that it will
not compromise growth of the founder population. Information on the current poaching threat can be gathered
from conservancy records of wildlife mortality and incidents of poaching, particularly of elephants, in recent
years. Predicting the future poaching threat is difficult as many factors may affect this including those beyond
the control of the organisations involved, e.g. national security. However, experience from both fenced rhino
sanctuaries and areas with free-ranging populations elsewhere in the country (Maasai Mara NR and Chyulu Hills)
has shown that increased investment in anti-poaching effort to levels sufficient for effective monitoring and
protection of black rhino either eliminates or significantly reduces the level of poaching such that it does not
impact population growth. Therefore, re-introduction of black rhino into Sera will be preceded by a major
investment into anti-poaching through increased staffing levels, training, equipment and infrastructure
development and the leveraging of long-term support to this investment.
4.1
Rhino Sanctuary Management Structure
Figure 1: Sera Management Structure including provision for rhino sanctuary management
Losesia & Sere Olipi Group Ranches
Major subcommittees
Sera Wildlife Conservancy Board
Tourism
Finance
External security support:
9-1, KWS, LWC
Conservancy Manager
Grazing
Conservancy Operations
Officer
Head Security
Officer
Accountant
Rhino Sanctuary
Officer
Deputy Security
Officer
Scouts
(General &
KPR)
Radio
Operators
Rhino
Security Unit
(KPR)
Rhino
monitoring
scouts
Fence
maintenance
team
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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The management structure for the Rhino sanctuary will be integrated into the existing institutional structure of
Sera and will fall under the overall management of the Conservancy Manager and Board of Trustees. It will
include the recruitment of new personnel/positions within Sera (boxes outline in red) as well as emphasis on
increasing the capacity of existing conservancy personnel. New positions employed within the sanctuary will
come from the local community; more senior management positions will be sourced nationally through a
competitive and transparent recruitment process.
•
•
•
•
•
4.2
Conservancy Operations Officer: this is a new position that will be responsible for oversight of all
conservancy security and monitoring operations including oversight of rhino sanctuary management.
Rhino Sanctuary Officer: this is a new position that will be responsible for day-to-day management of
the rhino sanctuary including direct management of rhino monitoring scouts and fence maintenance
teams.
Rhino Security Unit (KPR): in addition to the existing 17 armed Kenya Police Reservist (KPR) scouts
who provide security throughout the greater Sera area, an additional 12 KPR registered scouts will form
a dedicated Rhino Security Unit armed patrol and response team, tasked with providing armed security
coverage to the Sera rhino sanctuary and its immediate surrounds. These may be drawn from within the
existing KPR contingent or new recruits.
Rhino Monitoring Scouts: a dedicated team of 24 unarmed rhino monitoring scouts will be established
and deployed within the sanctuary tasked with rhino monitoring and general security. These may be
drawn from within the existing Sera scout contingent or new recruits.
Fence Maintenance Team: a team of 6 fence maintenance staff will be recruited and trained to patrol
and maintain the approximately 50 km of fence around the sanctuary.
Sanctuary size, stocking rate & carrying capacity
The reintroduction of Black rhino to Sera will include the introduction of 20 rhino into a fenced
sanctuary of 120 km2. The proposed sanctuary area, which has been agreed to by the communities of Loseisa
and Sere Olipi sub-locations, lies within the existing core conservation area of the conservancy where livestock
grazing is precluded or controlled. There are no settlements within or nearby to the proposed sanctuary (see
map Annex 1).
KWS habitat assessment of the proposed sanctuary area showed good diversity of preferred black rhino browse
species with over 35 suitable plant species (Annex 2), and a high variety of woody plants at a good height.
Variety in plant species is important for balancing tannin levels found in each plant. Black rhinos require a variety
of plant species throughout different seasons in their diets. Palatability and nutritional value of available browse
for rhinos was assessed and plant growth index and biomass determined using Adcock’s methods (Wandera et. al.
2010; Annex 2). These calculations were used to estimate the Ecological Carrying Capacity (ECC) and Maximum
Productivity Carrying Capacity (MPCC) for the 120 km2 rhino sanctuary and surrounding conservancy area/IPZ.
The western side of the conservancy was observed to be more suitable due to the mixed shrubs present, while
the east was dominated by Commiphora spp.
The predicted Ecological Carrying Capacity (ECC) within the 120 km2 sanctuary is 29 rhinos (0.244 rhinos/km²)
with a Maximum Productivity Carrying Capacity (MPCC) of 22 rhinos (Table 1). The IPZ area would focus on
the existing surrounding conservation area of 404 km2 and has an ECC of 99 rhinos and MPCC of 74 rhinos.
The total capacity for rhinos in the long-term in Sera, including both the fenced sanctuary and IPZ, has an ECC
of 128 rhinos and MPCC of 96 rhinos.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
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Table 1: Estimated ECC and MPCC of 120 km2 rhino sanctuary and 404 km2 IPZ in Sera (adapted from Wandera
et. al. 2010)
Sera
Estimated Area size in Km²
Plant growth index for suitable plants with consideration of soil
fertility, temperature and fire
Estimated average basic plant growth per year (Metres/ Year)
Estimated ECC Prior to adjustment following Brett’s work (Rhinos/
Km²)
ECC Upper limit with 95% CI
ECC Lower limit with 95% CI
Mean
Maximum Productivity Carrying Capacity (MPCC) @ 75% of ECC
Estimated ECC with adjustments following Brett’s work
(Rhinos/ Km²)
ECC Upper limit with 95% CI
ECC Lower limit with 95% CI
Mean
Maximum Productivity Carrying Capacity (MPCC) @ 75% of
ECC
Rhino Sanctuary
120 km2
0.042
0.22
0.217
IPZ
404 km2
TOTAL
524 km2
26 rhinos
88 rhinos
114 rhinos
20 rhinos
29 rhinos
66 rhinos
99 rhinos
86 rhinos
128 rhinos
22 rhinos
74 rhinos
96 rhinos
0.248
0.189
0.219
0.244
0.292
0.204
0.248
Figure 2: Projected population growth rate
and time to reach MPCC in 120 km2
sanctuary and 404 km2 IPZ within Sera,
assuming annual growth rate of 5, 6 & 7%.
The vision of the Sera rhino sanctuary is to achieve a minimum of 5% per annum growth rate of the
population. With a founder population of 20 individuals, MPCC of the sanctuary (22 animals) would be
achieved within the first four (4) years assuming an annual growth rate of between 5-7% (Figure 2).
However the long-term vision is to have free-ranging rhinos within an IPZ outside the core breeding sanctuary;
MPCC of the IPZ (74 animals) would take more than 20 years to achieve assuming an annual population
growth rate of between 5-7% (Figure 2).
Rhinos would not be moved out of the sanctuary until the ECC has almost been achieved (i.e. 90% of
ECC, or 26 rhino). At this point the decision of release into a surrounding IPZ or translocation to restock other rhino sanctuaries in the country would need to be decided. This is likely to be achieved
only after six (6) years following the reintroduction of rhinos to Sera.
ECC and MPCC are calculated based purely on habitat, soils, rainfall and suitable browse and will also be
affected by water distribution within the sanctuary (see section 4.3). Vegetation change from the satellite images
indicates that there has been an increase in vegetation cover, especially woody plants, and that the area maintains
capacity during dry periods. This finding was collaborated by the on-site assessment which was conducted at the
end of the 2009 drought. With better management of the area through controlled grazing and zonation of the
conservancy, the habitat condition will be maintained and therefore continue to have the potential to support
black rhino. Habitat management within the sanctuary and conservancy could also be manipulated to suit
changing conditions in order to improve capacity for Black rhino, i.e. through trimming of overgrown shrubs to
increase availability and management of keystone species like elephants which modify habitat. It is
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
13
recommended that the western side of the conservancy be utilized as an area for rhino re-introduction because
of the variety of suitable and available browse. This area also has adequate cover for the rhinos to shelter and
hide during the day. A similar study should be conducted in five years time to establish any change in the ECC.
4.3
Water availability
There are several permanent water sources within the proposed sanctuary area; even in the most severe drought
these water sources have not been known to dry up. These are located predominantly in the western and northwestern parts of the sanctuary (Lontopi, Kapai and Lchorro losowan – see map Annex 1). To increase the
habitat available to rhinos additional water sources will need to be developed in the eastern part of the sanctuary.
These will involve a combination of sand dams, scrapes, and water pans fed from harvested rainwater (rock
catchments).
The proposed IPZ which covers the rest of the sanctuary is well supplied with additional permanent water
sources. Permanent springs are distributed throughout the conservancy however predominantly in the western
part of the conservancy or on the periphery. Additional water sources could be developed in the central and
eastern extent of the IPZ to provide water for rhinos in future.
4.4
Security
Sera will operate a multi tiered security strategy building on its existing security and support apparatus and well
established partnerships with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LWC) and Northern
Rangelands Trust (NRT).
Patrol effort within and immediately surrounding the 120 km2 rhino sanctuary will include an armed unit of 12
KPR and 24 rhino monitoring scouts working in 12 teams of 2 scouts per team. With no more than 25% of
personnel off duty at any one time, this will give an effective scout force of approximately 1 scout per 4.7 km2.
This represents a slightly higher effective scout force to that in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy which has one 1
scout per 5 km2 (two times the AfRSG recommended level).
The KPR Rhino Security Unit will have a Patrol Leader who will work under the authority of the Conservancy
Head Security Officer and Conservancy Operations Officer and will work closely with the Rhino Sanctuary
officer and sanctuary’s Rhino Monitoring Teams and Sera general security scouts. Additional security support
will be provided as needed by a Joint-Conservancy Anti-Poaching team (9-1, which is a regional rapid response
team under NRT), KWS Special Operations Group and LWC Security department including KPR teams, tracker
dogs and aircraft.
Observation posts (OPs)
• Permanent – There will be two (2) permanent OP positions deployed in the hills within the sanctuary
providing over watch capability, dominating the surrounding landscape, particularly eastwards, acting as a
significant overt deterrent, with a 24 hr capability. Each of these OPs will be manned by two (2) scouts who
will be rotated on a weekly basis within general security and rhino monitoring teams.
• Standing patrols/non permanent OPs – these will be established as required, deployed as a tactical, routine/
pattern breaking surveillance effort.
Intelligence
• Sera will build on existing intelligence information sources within the community and wider Sera area and
place emphasis on ensuring ongoing community support and endorsement of the rhino reintroduction
programme.
• Sera’s strong links with KWS and LWC, whose intelligence footprints across the area have been developed
over many years, will also enhance intelligence gathering potential as a proactive method of addressing
security risks to rhino within the Sera sanctuary.
• Specific training in intelligence gathering will be garnered via KWS and LWC with a view to integrating KWS
CLIC personnel and LWC Intelligence Department into the intelligence gathering process across the greater
Sera area.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
14
Communications
• Office infrastructure and an Operations Room (Ops room) will be constructed adjacent to the sanctuary
together with accommodation infrastructure for rhino monitoring scouts and the Rhino Security Unit.
• The Ops room will be manned full-time (24/7) by a radio operator.
• Sera rhino sanctuary will utilize a dedicated, encrypted VHF repeater (duplex) system which will provide
secure communications with a ‘ring fenced’ set of frequencies, available only to those personnel working
within the rhino sanctuary.
• The Rhino sanctuary Ops room, and security personnel will have access to general Sera, NRT regional and
Namunyak Conservancy communications channels.
• Vehicles deployed in support of the Sera rhino sanctuary will have access to similar communications
channels as detailed above.
Infrastructure & Equipment
• 1 x Land Cruiser – dedicated for the management and security of the Rhino sanctuary (Sera has an additional
Land cruiser for general security and administration).
• 1 x Motorcycle – I/C Fence maintenance team.
• Light aircraft – A Piper Super Cub and NRT pilot will be based within or adjacent to Sera to provide aerial
coverage and support as required to both Sera and Namunyak Conservancy rhino sanctuaries. There are
several airstrips already established in Sera which are strategically located in the north, east and western
extent of the conservancy.
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) – The feasibility of monitoring rhino transmitter implants and provision
of general aerial security from a UAV system is currently being investigated.
• Radios – Sera sanctuary security apparatus (personnel, Ops room, vehicles and aircraft) will be fully equipped
with a Motorola VHF radio systems including GP 340 hand held radios, GM 340 vehicle and base radios,
and Repeater GR 500 VHF duplex (twin frequency system); the sanctuary will operate under a secure and
dedicated radio frequency.
• Surveillance Equipment (Binoculars, Spotting scopes, Night Visions Goggles, Thermal Imaging) – these
items will be issued as required to the Rhino Security Unit and rhino monitoring teams.
• Tents and ancillaries – Rhino Security Unit will be provided with sufficient equipment to enable them to
overnight in the field i.e. rucksacks, tents, sleeping bags and mats, cooking and eating utensils etc.
• Weapons – KPR Armed teams will be equipped with Government issued HK G3, 7.62mm, auto/semi
automatic rifles.
Training
• KPR Rhino Security Unit – Post recruitment these individuals will be trained at KWS Field Training School
(Manyani).
• Rhino monitoring teams, Radio operators, drivers etc will be trained according to skills requirements by a
combination of KWS and LWC training teams.
• Continuation / update training for all personnel will be a regular component of monthly work plans as will
skills tests to assess proficiency levels.
• Personnel / Training / Proficiency records will be maintained by the Conservancy Operations Officer.
4.5
Fencing
A one metre (3 feet) high, three strand
electric fence with internal and external
spokes will be constructed around the
perimeter of the sanctuary (approximately
50 km). This is intended as a barrier to
contain rhino and create a physical
demarcation of the sanctuary to people and
livestock. Livestock grazing will not be
permitted within the sanctuary.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
15
At strategic points along the fence where
there are known paths for elephant and
other wildlife there will be gaps in the
fence to create a corridor for wildlife,
including elephants. These consist of a
short brick wall to prevent movement of
rhino out of the sanctuary and thick, short
posts spaced 50 cm apart across the
corridor. All wildlife, except rhinos, is able
to move freely through these gaps.
Maintenance - A six (6) man fence maintenance team will be deployed in two (2) separate locations (three (3)
men per location) tasked with daily inspection, clearance and basic maintenance of the sanctuary fence line.
Patrolling of the fence line on a daily basis by fence staff and rhino monitoring scouts will be crucial to ensure no
unauthorised entry of people and livestock into the conservancy and no rhinos have broken through the fence or
gaps. The maintenance team will be under the direct management of the Rhino Sanctuary Officer.
The southern boundary of the proposed sanctuary is bounded by a track; additional tracks will be cleared along
the entire fence line to facilitate movement of a vehicle for maintenance and monitoring.
4.6
Rhino Monitoring
All re-introduced black rhinos will be ear-notched with unique identification codes to enable identification of
individual rhinos in the field. Additionally all founder rhinos will be fitted with Telonics horn-implant
transmitters facilitating tracking of their movements. The Sera community has decided against dehorning the
founder rhino unless absolutely necessary, owing to the fact that there may be a perception of a lack of trust in
the community if this is done. Attempts will be made to locate all rhino on a daily basis, and emergency
procedures established in the event that a rhino is not observed within 3-5 days.
A Rhino Sanctuary Officer will be recruited and will have responsibility for coordinating all research and
monitoring activities within the Sera rhino sanctuary.
Rhino monitoring scouts will be trained in rhino monitoring by accredited rhino monitoring instructors from
KWS and LWC using the AfRSG training course and adhering to Kenya Black rhino monitoring protocols
(Version 2.0 – June 2008). The standardised Kenya Black rhino Information Management System (KIFARU)
will be implemented allowing data to be stored and analysed to assist with rhino management inside the
sanctuary. The KIFARU system is designed to provide a range of information required for management
including individual rhino movements, patrol effort, inter-calving interval, sighting intervals etc. All data entry
and analyses will be maintained and carried out by the Rhino Sanctuary Officer with technical support and
oversight from KWS and LWS.
4.7
Monitoring habitat & impact of other herbivores
Other wildlife will not be excluded from the sanctuary area therefore impact of species such as elephant and
giraffe on vegetation will need to be closely monitored. A standardised wildlife monitoring system (CoMMS) has
already been established in Sera which provides information on trends in abundance of key wildlife species,
wildlife mortality, security, patrol effort and human wildlife conflict. This monitoring will continue across the
Conservancy and rhino scouts will also provide data on other wildlife species within the sanctuary. This will be
important as it will enable changes in key species and their threats to be monitored over time, particularly in
relation to the establishment of the rhino sanctuary.
Other monitoring, such as vegetation monitoring and Ecological Carrying Capacity assessments, will be carried
out periodically in conjunction with KWS and LWC Research personnel, in order to provide information on
medium-long term vegetation changes. This will be particularly important in the case of the fenced sanctuary, to
establish impact of rhino and other browsing species on vegetation, and to enable adaptive management
particularly of other large herbivores.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
4.8
16
Disease
Sera has experienced comparatively recent changes in the dynamics of domestic animal populations, disease and
environmental factors, meaning that disease poses more of a threat for black rhino than it did historically. KWS
veterinary department carried out a Veterinary assessment of the proposed Sera rhino sanctuary in December
2009 (Mutinda, 2010; Annex 3). Conclusions from this assessment indicated that Sera has considerable diversity
of existing wildlife with little challenges. This positive health indicator is evidence of adaptation to existing
pathogens and the lack of virulent pathogens in the Sera area. In the livestock sector occasional Anthrax cases in
the area have been reported that have also affected wildlife e.g., there was an outbreak of anthrax in Grevy’s
zebra 2004/06. Diarrhoea’s are common and of varied aetiology (bacterial parasitic and very rarely viral) and
disease transmission between livestock and wildlife is a threat where they share the same sources of water.
However, this threat will be minimised in the rhino sanctuary which will be fenced and livestock presence
excluded.
Sera is heavily invested with ticks of various types which have the potential to spread disease, although no major
casualties have been recorded in wild animals, probably due to adaptive immunity. However, immunologically
naïve animals from different areas should be introduced with caution. Animals from similar geographical areas
might have similar innate and acquired immune systems and would therefore be preferable for reintroduction
into Sera. The movement of an animal with potentially infected ticks into a new environment creates a situation
of possible indeterminate consequences regarding the stability between parasite and animal. Caution will
therefore be exercised and under the guidance from KWS Veterinary Department prophylactic treatment for
potential diseases will be performed in such instances.
A more detailed investigation of tsetse fly presence and trypanosomiasis threat was carried out in Sera by KWS and
KARI (Kenya Agricultural Research Institute) Researchers in July 2010 (Kiragu & Mutinda, 2010; Annex 4).
Trapping indicated an absence of tsetse flies in Sera at this time of year and sampling of livestock also identified
no trypanosomiasis. It was concluded therefore that Black rhino can be introduced safely to the area without any
intervention against this disease threat.
Table 2. Risk level of rhino to disease in Sera (adapted from Mutinda, 2010)
Disease
Tick borne diseases
Typanosomiasis
Babesiosis
Theileriosis
Pneumonias
Hypothesized risk factors
Environment, management, stress
Environment and stress
Environment
Environment
Climate, management
High, medium, low
low
low
low
low
low
If necessary, protocols for managing disease risk and determining rhino immunity will be established in close
consultation with KWS veterinary department once rhinos are in-situ.
4.9
Predation
Monitoring of large predators in Sera has been carried out by scouts as part of the wildlife monitoring
programme. Large predators present include lion, spotted hyena, leopard and very occasionally African wild dog.
Densities of large predators are likely to be much lower than in private/government rhino sanctuaries elsewhere
in the country as there is low tolerance of these predators by pastoralists leading to high conflict, displacement
and persecution of predators. Current monitoring is establishing trends in abundance of large predators and is
not aimed at getting either population numbers or densities of these species.
Livestock depredation by large carnivores is rarely reported in the conservancy, this is because of there being
only a seasonal presence of livestock in the conservancy where scout monitoring takes place.
Lion are relatively abundant, with the largest pride observed of twelve (12) individuals. Lions are most commonly
seen in luggas around Kauro, Motto and Kisima Hamsini. Trends appear to be declining over years of
monitoring; however this could be a shift in lions to the eastern extent of conservancy with the influx of
livestock into the conservancy in late 2008 and 2009.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
17
Leopard are relatively abundant and it appears that the population is stable. They are predominantly observed
along the Kauro lugga as individual animals.
There is very little data on Spotted hyena; this is a combination of the reluctance of community scouts to gather
this information and the nocturnal behavior of hyena.
Only two (2) small packs of Wild dogs have been observed in the area over the past four (4) years, however,
prior to this they had not been seen in the area for about ten (10) years. Wild dogs are therefore likely to be only
transitory and in small numbers.
Steps for mitigating the threat from predators to rhino within the Sera rhino sanctuary:
• Sanctuary fence, while not a predator-proof configuration, is likely to be a partial barrier to the free
movement of predators into the sanctuary.
• Any predators identified within the sanctuary area, which pose a threat to rhino (verified through
predation reports on rhino), will be captured and removed.
• Scouts will be instructed to monitor and report signs of predators within the sanctuary.
4.10 Community awareness
Community awareness and endorsement of the planned reintroduction of Black rhino to Sera has been on-going
since 2008 and has been integral to the development of this Management Plan. An assessment of community
attitudes towards the proposed rhino reintroduction was carried out by an independent PhD researcher in
December 2009 (Glew, 2009; Annex 7). An attitudes questionnaire was undertaken in six communities
participating in the conservancy management to quantify support for previous translocations in the area as well
as awareness and support for the current rhino proposal. Community support was high for the previous
translocations of giraffe and Somali ostrich and the proposed rhino translocation. Furthermore, support for the
proposed rhino translocation was uniform across demographic groups and communities. Economic gain was
the primary reason for community support (71%), with respondents recognising the potential for additional
revenue streams and infrastructural development as a result of successful translocation. Respondents also
displayed support based on non-economic motives with many considering the proposed translocation as a
cultural and scientific benefit. Awareness of the rhino translocation plans was considerably lower than of
previous translocations with more than 40% of respondents being unaware of the proposal. Awareness was
particularly low amongst female community members and those in areas distant from the Conservancy
headquarters. However, the data gathered suggest that any reintroduction of Black rhinos to Sera would receive
widespread community support.
Ensuring continued community support was identified as one of the key strategies for successful rhino
conservation during the CAP that will assist in addressing internal security threat and grazing pressure from
livestock (Watson et. al. 2009; Annex 6). The strategy for ensuring community support is already underway,
through the Sera Management and Board of Trustees. Awareness will be on-going throughout the
implementation of the management plan to ensure strong engagement and ownership by the community in the
development of the rhino sanctuary.
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
18
5.0 Financial strategy
5.1
Financial Management
Financial management of Sera rhino conservation funds will be as follows:
• A separate account will be established under Sera to manage operating funds for the sanctuary;
• Annual operating budgets for the rhino sanctuary will be developed by the Sera Board, management and
NRT and integrated with the overall Conservancy budget;
• Expenditure of rhino sanctuary funds will be through the Sera Finance Committee and Management;
NRT may be invited to be a signatory on this account;
• Initial funds for capital and infrastructure will be managed by NRT and all expenditure reports shared
with the Sera Finance Committee.
A budget for infrastructure, equipment, personnel and training will be drawn up by NRT and Sera. The annual
operating budget will be revised on an annual basis by Sera and NRT once rhinos are in-situ.
5.2
Funding
In order to reintroduce Black rhino back into community areas there is a prerequisite for secure long term
funding for five to ten years. NRT will coordinate fundraising for rhino reintroduction on behalf of Sera and
develop formal partnerships with credible conservation organizations, bi-lateral donors and wildlife charities.
NRT and Sera will seek to get clear indications of commitment from the funding partners to support the project
for at least ten (10) years (see section 6.0 Role of Partners). Funding has already been secured through a private
donor for the initial assessments and ground work that have contributed to this Management Plan.
It is assumed that as long as there is a stable global economy there is likely to be funding available for saving
highly endangered species such as Black rhino, especially within a community context. In addition to this, under
the current approach of intergovernmental development agencies, there is increasing recognition of the role that
communities working through conservancies, with established strong governance principals, can attract
significant external funding.
The reintroduction of rhino into this area will act as a catalyst for increased tourism and is expected to increase
the revenues from the existing tourism operations in the Conservancy. With increased tourism investment into
Sera, projected revenue from tourism is likely to contribute up to 10% of annual operating costs for the rhino
sanctuary in the long-term.
5.3
Budget Summary
Summary of projected costs for establishment of the Sera rhino sanctuary and operating costs for 5-years are
shown. Please note this is a draft budget which may be revised following further consultation, and figures
should therefore be used only as a guide. The total project budget for 5-years is estimated at approximately US$
3 million.
Capital
Operating
Training
Rhino Translocation
TOTAL
Year 1
623,557
210,365
45,000
140,000
1,018,922
Year 2
Year 3
396,730
15,000
411,730
436,403
15,000
451,403
Year 4
80,000
480,044
15,000
575,044
Year 5
528,048
15,000
543,048
TOTAL
703,557
2,051,591
105,000
140,000
3,000,148
The intial investment needed for the set-up of the Sera rhino sanctuary, including all infrastructure, equipment,
translocation, personnel costs is approximately US$ 1 million. Annual operating costs for the rhino sanctuary
including associated conservancy operating costs are estimated at between US$ 400,000 – US$ 530,000 per year
(allowing for annual inflation of 10%).
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
19
6.0 Role of Partners
Key partners are already engaged in the process of Black rhino reintroduction to Sera. Partners’ roles are outlined
below.
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS):
As the custodian of all wildlife in the country, KWS will be a long-term, strategic partner to Sera for the rhino
project; specific roles include:
• Authorisation and approval for rhino reintroduction
• Training in rhino monitoring and paramilitary training of Rhino Security Unit
• Security support
• Veterinary support
• Management guidance through KWS Rhino Programme
• Translocation expertise
• Provision of recommendations to assist in fundraising
Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT):
NRT is an umbrella organisation for community conservation in northern Kenya. Roles include:
• Coordination of rhino reintroduction to community conservancies including Sera
• Oversight of the management plan ensuring that all aspects of the plan, threats identified are being
addressed, and partners are fulfilling their respective roles
• Coordination of fundraising
• Management and institutional capacity building
• Logistical support with aircraft, vehicles etc.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (LWC):
As a successful private rhino sanctuary and catalyst for conservation outside its boundaries, LWC has significant
expertise to provide mentorship to Sera in the rhino reintroduction plans:
• Security support – tracker dogs, aircraft, intelligence gathering and oversight by Senior Security Officers
• Training – security, rhino monitoring
• Oversight of rhino and habitat monitoring
• Radio communications support
• Logistics support for infrastructure construction
• Field veterinary unit (in collaboration with KWS)
• Translocation expertise (in collaboration with KWS)
• Potential source for rhinos
Ol Pejeta Conservancy (OPC):
OPC is a successful private rhino sanctuary that has trialled innovative fence designs for wildlife and integrated
wildlife and livestock management:
• Fencing configuration
• Staff capacity exchange
• Knowledge of integrated rhino and livestock management
• Translocation expertise (in collaboration with KWS)
Fauna and Flora International (FFI):
FFI is a UK-based conservation organisation and long-term partner to NRT and community conservancy
development in northern Kenya:
• Fundraising
• Technical support – rhino conservation (R. Brett), institutional management (M. Rice)
• Links to African Rhino Specialist Group and other international rhino conservation groups
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
Government of Kenya/Samburu County Council:
As the local government authority in Samburu East, the county council will be a critical partner to Sera in the
long-term:
• Political goodwill and support
• Authorisation for area to be managed as a rhino sanctuary by Sera
• Coordination with government security agencies (Kenya Police etc.)
20
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
7.0 Annexes
7.1
Map of proposed sanctuary area
7.2
KWS habitat assessment
7.3
KWS security assessment
7.4
KWS veterinary assessment
7.5
Tsetse & Tripanosomiasis assessment
7.6
Rhino Conservation Action Plan (CAP)
7.7
Community attitudes towards Black rhino translocation in Sera
21
Management Plan for Black Rhino Reintroduction in Sera Wildlife Conservancy, Revised February 2011
Annex 7.1 Proposed Rhino Sanctuary and IPZ in Sera wildlife conservancy
22