“European hunters are responsible for the early decline of black rhino populations. It was not uncommon for five or six rhinos to be killed in a day for food or simply for amusement. European settlers that arrived in Africa in the early 20th century to colonize and establish farms and plantations continued this senseless slaughter. Most people regarded rhinos as vermin and exterminated them at all costs.

“DOOMED.” That was the front page headline of the UK newspaper, the Daily Mirror, in 1961, accompanied by a full-page photo of two African rhinos. The article said that rhinos were “doomed to disappear from the face of the earth due to man’s folly, greed, neglect” and encouraged readers to support a new conservation organization: WWF. We’ve been fighting to protect African rhinos ever since. Recent success in black rhino conservation is heartening, but a lot of work remains to bring the population up to even a fraction of what it once was – and ensure that it stays there.”

Earth First News May 7, 2013

I wanted to paint a tribute piece on my birthday…this, to the Western Black Rhino.  As I contemplate covenant, I wonder what it is that we can do as a global community to care more diligently for our planet.  We are the keepers.

Two hours of focused work and this piece was gratefully purchased at auction by a young lady who is training to be a vet, Carrie.  Surprise!  Her birthday also falls on May 8!  This connection was meant to be!

Thanks to daughter, Erin and son, Douglas, for attending my birthday battle!

Carrie and Me