On the plains of Kenya, under a harsh sun, two robust figures graze in silence. At first glance, it might seem like any postcard of the savannah. However, what you see is something unique: Najin and Fatu, the last two females of the northern white rhino that are still alive all over the planet.
The story changed in 2018, when Sudan, the last male of his lineage, died. Since then, natural reproduction became impossible, and with it, the species was considered "functionally extinct." Today, its future depends solely on science.
A race against time
Najin, who is now approaching 40, and Fatu, who is slightly younger, remain under strict protection at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Researchers have been working for some time with Fatu's eggs and cryopreserved sperm from deceased males. The experiments have resulted in more than XNUMX embryos being produced in the laboratory, with the primary goal of implanting them in females. southern white rhino, a subspecies that, unlike them, has more than 16 thousand specimens.
Amidst the uncertainty and sadness, some background information. In 2023, one of the surrogate mothers died from an infection during pregnancy. Despite the setbacks, scientists haven't given up: each failed attempt translates into new experience and opens a window of hope for the birth of a baby.
This team of researchers responsible for these experiments form the international consortium BioRescue, led mainly by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (Leibniz-IZW) from Germany and coordinated together with the Safari Park Dvur Králové (Czech Republic), the biotechnology company Avantea (Italy), and other academic and conservation institutions. In addition, Kenyan organizations such as the Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the Kenya Wildlife Service.
A mirror of contrasts
The fate of northern white rhino It's even more striking when compared to its southern cousin. At the end of the 19th century, this latter subspecies was on the verge of extinction, but thanks to conservation strategies, it managed to recover. Its case is clear evidence: when there is will, resources, and firm policies, nature can find a way back.
However, not all species share this fortune, and some are more delicate and sensitive than others. Sumatran and Javan rhinos number barely more than 50 individuals, respectively, which clearly illustrates the persistent obstacles: habitat loss, illegal hunting and human expansion on their lands.
Guardians of balance
Rhinoceroses are not only impressive for their size and strength; they also perform a silent but essential function in their ecosystems. By modifying the vegetation as they pass and feed, they facilitate the lives of other species. Conserving them, therefore, also means safeguarding a diverse population that depends on them, their habits, and so on.
A call that transcends borders
Although Najin and Fatu will never be able to conceive, their existence has ignited a spark of hope. The BioRescue project and others like it insist that saving them also means saving our relationship with nature. Biotechnology is advancing, and with it, the possibility of giving rhinos a future.
The outcome of this story no longer depends solely on laboratories: it's also in our hands. Supporting conservation programs, speaking out about their importance, and adopting more respectful habits are small but decisive steps.
Extinction is forever, but we still have time. A Disney documentary shows the race and struggle to save the northern white rhinos through surrogacy, with only two females remaining, with photographer Ami Vitale.