The northern white rhino is on the verge of extinction, with only two females remaining in the world. Najin and Fatu live under protection at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.
The last male, named Sudan, died in 2018, ending any chance of natural reproduction for the subspecies. Since then, scientists have turned to advanced reproductive technologies in a final attempt to save it.
Researchers are using in vitro fertilization (IVF) by collecting eggs from the two surviving females and combining them with frozen sperm from deceased males. The embryos are then implanted into southern white rhino surrogates, which are closely related and more numerous.
The international BioRescue team, leading the project, reported a breakthrough in 2023 when they achieved a successful embryo transfer. While no calves have yet been born, the development has raised hopes that the species could be saved.
However, the work faces major challenges, including low success rates, high costs, and the limited number of eggs available. Despite this, conservationists remain determined.
The Ol Pejeta Conservancy continues to protect Najin and Fatu around the clock while supporting scientific efforts. Experts warn that time is running out, but say the ongoing programme offers the best chance of preventing the complete disappearance of the northern white rhino.
