Freight forwarder a. hartrodt (Belgium) arranged the transportation of a rare rhino via Singapore Airlines Cargo and says it was delighted to “contribute to the survival of rhinos”.
The challenging task saw a 1100 kilogramme rhino from a German zoo via Brussels Airport to Australia. The highly endangered mammal was destined for a breeding facility Down Under to broaden the genetic diversity of the Australian rhino population and ensure its survival.
This rhino airlift was deemed critically important to increase the number of animals born. It’s a proven tool for rhino conservation.
The Australian government has very strict rules and regulations in relation to the importation of live animals the transport project had to be carefully planned and all paperwork meticulously completed before the animal was able to take off.
In addition, a. hartrodt had to comply with the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.
a.hartrodt (Beigium) director, Philippe Fierens says: “The transport of the rhino continues a proud tradition of a. hartrodt to support animal conservation efforts. The welfare of the animal is, of course, the most important thing for us.
“We therefore asked Singapore Airlines Cargo to delay the flight out of Brussels. This way we were able to reduce the transit time in Singapore and the overall travel time for the rhino to a minimum.
“The well-being and comfort of the animal was closely monitored during the whole trip by a very experienced veterinarian who accompanied the shipment.”
The rhino with its tailor-made transport box weighed in at 3150 kg and it adds to the live animals the forwarder has moved over the last 20 years, which has included everything from lions, to leopards.
a. hartrodt regional managing director for Belgium, France and Switzerland, Jens Roemer: “We are proud that we have been able to develop such good relations with zoos and breeding stations as well as state vets, customs authorities, and airlines.
“It allows us to prepare and manage such challenging projects to the highest professional standards both on the ground and in the air. This is a niche market. It requires a passion for animals. I am proud that a. hartrodt has such staff.”
