Wild Wonderful World funded 3.4 hours of helicopter time as part of the Mkuze rhino population management strategy. During the operation, the game capture team darted and notched 11 white and 5 black rhinos. They were younger animals who's DNA and ID hadn't been added to the ecologists' database yet. The animals were notched, IDd and DNA samples taken. This helps Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife manage their rhino population and improve genetic diversity between all their reserves. The helicopter is an essential component in ensuring the safety and success of each procedure.

Ear notching may sound unusual, but it plays a vital role in rhino conservation and management. Every rhino in a smallprotected area needs to be individually identifiable — much like humans having fingerprints or ID numbers. This helps conservation teams keep track of important details such as where each rhino moves, how often females give birth, and how individuals interact with one another. During this operation, Dr Rowan Leeming led the veterinary work, Grant Pengilly of Heligistix piloted the helicopter, and a Foxbat aircraft assisted with aerial spotting to help locate rhinos more efficiently. The entire operation was conducted in collaboration with African Wildlife Vets, with support from Rodel Finance, XContent, and Blankets for Baby Rhinos.

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