Recently, a southern white rhino calf, affectionately named CK, was born at the Altina Wildlife Park in western Riverina, Australia, but faced a bleak start as his mother, Tatu, rejected him following a difficult birth. The traumatic event left CK reliant on specialized care to survive, prompting local community members to rally together to provide financial support for his milk and care. This act of kindness highlights the deep connection between wildlife conservation and community engagement.

CK is significant not only for his survival but also for the broader conservation efforts of the southern white rhino, a species that is currently classified as near-threatened. With the Riverina community's assistance, CK is not only getting the nourishment he needs but is also finding companionship with Willow, an Asian water buffalo, which plays a crucial role in his ongoing development and socialization. The community's involvement emphasizes the importance of collective action in wildlife rehabilitation and the impact of grassroots support.

As CK continues to grow and thrive, the hope is that he will become a vital part of breeding programs across Australasia aimed at increasing the population of his species. The story of CK serves as both a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by threatened wildlife and the power of community in conservation efforts, showcasing the collective responsibility towards the natural world.