Animal Rescue Centre
About ARC
ARC (Aquila’s Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre) is a non-profit section 21 organisation (#2004/011009/08), established as a sanctuary for animals that can never be released into the wild again. As one of the Western Cape’s leading wildlife conservation programmes, ARC also serves as a temporary home for endangered or injured wildlife in need of attention and medical care before being released into the wild.
ARC Robben Island
On 29 April 2008 Searl Derman, the owner of Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa, came across a newspaper article headlining how the fallow deer and rabbits were starving on Robben Island. Searl Derman immediately contacted the appropriate authorities asking how he could assist them. He then set out to meet with Robben Island, and the other involved parties in order to find a solution to the problem at hand.
Black Eagle Project
Cape Town’s Big 5 safari, Aquila Private Game Reserve, is named after the rarely-sighted Black or Verreaux’s Eagle (aquila verreauxii). This majestic raptor is regularly seen on the reserve by eagle-eyed rangers and guests. As part of the leopard monitoring programme, Aquila staff place cameras at the site of recent kills made by several of the elusive and endangered nocturnal Cape Mountain Leopards that hunt on the Reserve. Sightings of Black eagles (which are large birds of prey) are occasional recorded via these remote camera locations.
Eco Synergy Systems
The Eco-Synergy Project is a specialised division of the Aquila Rehabilitation & Conservation Centre (ARC), focused on reducing Aquila’s carbon footprint through various eco-friendly initiatives. This comprehensive programme encompasses a range of interconnected eco-synergy systems, including a waste management plan that incorporates worm farms and biogas plants. These efforts have led to the development of community vegetable and herb gardens, and the implementation of an aquaponics system.
Rhino Conservation & Facilities
Our dedicated team is committed to rehabilitating and releasing rhinos that have endured severe facial and respiratory injuries due to poaching incidents. Dr. Johan Marais serves as our Patron and National Head Vet and Wildlife Surgeon. In 2012, he founded the “Saving the Survivors” initiative to care for injured and endangered wildlife, with a focus on rhinos and elephants. Dr. Johan is internationally renowned for his innovative procedures and pioneering surgeries on critically injured rhinos. Dr. Marais is supported by Dr. Doempjes Trichardt from Tulbagh Veterinary Services.
Orphaned Rhino Calf
The rhino orphanage is strategically situated where the anti-poaching courses are conducted, creating a powerful deterrent to potential poachers. This location also guarantees access to highly skilled ex-military and police personnel, firearms, anti-poaching instructors, as well as K9 anti-poaching dog handling instructors overseeing our K9 breeding centre. Once the orphaned rhinos are capable of feeding and fending for themselves (or have recovered from their injuries), they will be returned to their original owners or released to spacious, free-roaming, and adequately protected game reserves.
Aquila's rhino conservation milestones
Discover how Aquila has become a leader in rhino conservation through successful breeding programmes, anti-poaching initiatives and dedicated wildlife protection. Explore the milestones that continue to shape the future of one of Africa’s most endangered species.
Frequently asked questions
Are Aquila's lions rescued?
Yes. The lions at Aquila were rescued from the canned hunting industry, where they would have been bred or kept in captivity specifically for trophy hunting.
Aquila provides them with spacious, secure enclosures that mimic natural habitats and comply with provincial and national wildlife regulations. This ensures the lions are safe, well-cared for, and able to exhibit natural behaviours, while supporting ethical and sustainable wildlife conservation.
Why are rhinos a target for poachers?
Rhinos are targeted by poachers primarily for their horns, which are made of keratin – the same substance as human hair and nails. Rhino horn is highly valued in some cultures for traditional medicine, ornamental carvings, and as a status symbol, driving a lucrative illegal market.
This demand has made rhinos one of the most endangered species in Africa, with poaching threatening populations across South Africa and other countries.
What is SPR?
SPR (Saving Private Rhino) is a non-profit initiative founded by Aquila to support rhino conservation across South Africa. It provides anti-poaching training and emergency medical assistance to reserves protecting these endangered animals.
Read more about our conservation efforts
Explore the latest stories from Aquila Private Game Reserve and discover how our conservation, wildlife rehabilitation and community initiatives are helping protect South Africa’s natural heritage.
