Our Partners & Collaborators
Asante Sana Private Game Reserve
Wildlife Emergency Fund (WEF)
Successful Elephant Range Expansion in the Eastern Cape
On Friday, May 9th, a cohesive family unit of five elephants was translocated from the Asante Sana Game Reserve in the Karoo to the Longhill Private Reserve in the Addo Region. The operation was carried out through a collaboration among the Fisher Foundation, the Wildlife Emergency Fund, Conservation Solutions, and the reserves.
Due to the breeding success at Asante Sana, the reserve’s elephant population had reached its prescribed ecological carrying capacity; therefore, the decision was made to move a small family unit to ensure the long-term sustainability of the reserve.
The elephant family was translocated to Longhill Private Reserve, which previously did not have elephants. This operation marks a successful expansion of elephant range in the Eastern Cape. Elephant populations are reaching their carrying capacity in many reserves in South Africa, and it is essential that more safe spaces, like Longhill, are established to secure the future of elephant populations in the country.
Longhill Reserve, under the stewardship of the Biggs family, has become a growing conservation success in the Eastern Cape. The reserve removed internal fencing in 2018 and has since reintroduced cheetah, buffalo, and other species. Longhill is positioning itself as a key conservation anchor in the Addo region, with future introductions such as rhino and brown hyena on the horizon.
An operation of this size requires a highly specialized and experienced team. The operation was led by capture veteran Kester Vickery and the team from the Wildlife Emergency Fund, while Dr. Annie Mears and Dr. Brendan Tindall provided veterinary expertise. Critical funding support was provided by the Fisher Foundation.
Dereck Milburn, Director of the Wildlife Emergency Fund, said, “We are thankful that the operation went well and that the range for elephants continues to expand in the Eastern Cape. Without reserves such as Asante Sana and Longhill Private Reserve, the elephant populations in South Africa would be at risk in the long term.”
The matriarch of the herd was fitted with a GPS collar so the herd can be tracked daily to ensure their safety and well-being after their journey. They have settled in well, are making good use of their new home, and have already found favorite feeding areas.
About Fisher Foundation
The Fisher Foundation is a South African nonprofit dedicated to conservation education and community upliftment in areas bordering protected wildlife landscapes. Founded by Richard Fisher, Executive Chairman of City Logistics, the foundation empowers youth aged 12–14 through immersive conservation camps and rhino dehorning awareness. It also provides essential community support, including rural food relief and school outreach.
Recently, the Fisher Foundation expanded its conservation portfolio to include support for emergency wildlife translocations—critical interventions that move vulnerable species to safer, more sustainable habitats. These projects generate local employment in veterinary services, reserve management, transport, and post-release monitoring. By investing in both wildlife protection and human well-being, the foundation builds conservation economies that strengthen communities and preserve natural heritage. To learn more, visit: www.richardfisherfoundation.org, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
About Longhill Reserve
Longhill Reserve is a 1,850-hectare private game reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, known for its rolling hills, succulent thicket, giraffes, and growing species list. It is part of The Bee Effect’s Safe Haven program, with 5,500 hectares set aside for pollinator habitat and local beekeeper training. In 2018, Longhill Reserve removed all its internal fencing to start the journey to becoming a fully Eco Reserve, to focus on conservation initiatives. In 2024, Longhill Reserve reintroduced two male cheetahs, becoming the 70th reserve in South Africa to do so.
The recent arrival of elephants marks a significant step in its rewilding efforts. Other species include buffalo, sable, impala, ostrich, nyala, waterbuck, Cape Grysbuck, and an abundance of kudu. Longhill Reserve is also home to many raptors, such as Fish Eagle, Black Eagle, Martial Eagle, to mention a few, as part of their list of 187 bird species, including the Kori Bustard, Blue Crane, and Secretary Birds. The Reserve combines active conservation initiatives, including the Spekboom Restoration Program, with luxury stays boasting 22 Rooms near Addo Elephant National Park. Longhill Reserve is looking to expand its special footprint in order to introduce further conservation initiatives. For more information, visit www.longhillreserve.com/, Instagram, and Facebook.
About Asante Sana Private Game Reserve
Nestled in the remote Sneeuberg Mountains of the Eastern Cape, Asante Sana Private Game Reserve is a secluded sanctuary known for its exceptional biodiversity. The reserve provides critical habitat for a wide array of species. Special thanks to Kitty and Richard Viljoen, who have managed the reserve for over three decades and made it possible for researcher Kyla Funk to conduct her long-term study on the resident elephants. A special thanks to the owners of Asante Sana, who generously sponsored Kyla’s flights to South Africa.
About Wildlife Emergency Fund (WEF)
The Wildlife Emergency Fund (WEF) delivers urgent funding and support to wildlife conservation emergencies across southern Africa. From large-scale translocations to critical veterinary interventions, WEF enables rapid, coordinated responses that protect threatened species. The fund works with trusted partners—veterinarians, rangers, conservation NGOs, and private reserves—to deploy resources where they’re needed most, with speed and accountability. WEF’s impact spans a wide range of species, including elephants, rhinos, lions, pangolins, vultures, and cheetahs. The organization operates with a lean structure to ensure donor funds are used directly in the field. Wildlife Emergency Fund was represented by director Mark Gillham for this translocation. To learn more or support our work, visit our Instagram and Facebook.
About iThemba Wildlife & Conservation Services
iThemba Wildlife & Conservation Services is a veterinary practice based in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, offering specialized care in wildlife, equine, and livestock medicine. Led by Dr. Annie Mears, a UK-trained veterinarian with extensive experience in conservation and large animal care, iThemba provides expert services ranging from wild megaherbivore and carnivore immobilisatons to equine medical and competition support. Committed to the health and welfare of animals across diverse ecosystems, iThemba serves private reserves, NGOs, and equestrian communities throughout the region. To learn more, visit www.ithembawcs.co.za/, Instagram, and Facebook.
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Wiki West
- May 18, 2025
