'Endangered means we still have time, but extinction is forever'
– Grant Fowlds
In 2016 the number of rhinos poached in South Africa stood at 1,054 (Department of Environmental Affairs). In 2017, 529 rhinos had been slaughtered by 24th July. In the last nine years, over 6,100 rhinos have been poached in South Africa leaving fewer than 19,000 white, and 2,000 black rhinos in the country. The situation is critical.
Grant Fowlds is a passionate conservationist who puts himself in the front line, on the ground, where it matters. He is deeply focused on highlighting the vast increase in rhino poaching, a scourge which has placed these mighty animals under serious threat of extinction. He is a partner of Rhino Art with the founder, philanthropic adventurer, Kingsley Holgate. Rhino Art – 'Let the children's voices be heard' – Project's aim is to gather the largest number of children's 'Art Voices' ever recorded, in support of Rhino Protection, and to use these 'Hearts and Minds' messages from the children of Africa as a worldwide call to action against rhino poaching. On a broader level he works closely with all of the biggest global and local conservation agencies, including WWF.
Grant Fowlds is a South African conservationist with a unique commitment to everything endangered. Grant's vision is to try to fill the shoes of the late elephant whisperer, Lawrence Anthony and his recent undercover filming of a tusk and horn auction in Vietnam demonstrates that he is on the right track.
Graham Spence is a journalist and editor. Originally from South Africa, he lives in England. Together he and his brother-in-law, conservationist Lawrence Anthony, wrote The Elephant Whisperer, the story of the incredible relationship forged between one man and a herd of wild African elephants. Other books with Lawrence Anthony include Babylon's Ark: The Incredible Wartime Rescue of the Baghdad Zoo, and The Last Rhinos: The Powerful Story of One Man's Battle to Save a Species.
"Exceptionally readable – a fluid and captivating story [...] a swashbuckling tale."
– Dr Dave Cooper, Rhinos Without Borders veterinarian, and Debbie Cooper of iSimangaliso Wetland Park
"A rollicking true-life adventure that celebrates rhinos and people."
– Guy Rogers, Daily Herald
"A terrific read [...] an outstanding book!"
– Gary Player and Vivienne Player
"A truly heart-wrenching story, but a must-read for all who value our wild animals and their right to roam free. Grant Fowlds is a Zulu in a white skin and loves the people who hold the key to animal conservation. This is an intriguing story that sends a clear message to the rest of the world."
– Phil Liggett
"Grant Fowlds' book is an excellent read. It's both sobering, and uplifting at the same time. Sobering because the sheer extent of the rhino-poaching crisis is revealed. Uplifting because Grant, and individuals like him are passionately committed to making a difference. The innovative ways in which they reach the hearts and minds of children, on both sides of the conflict, is impressive. As, too, is his work with communities and other stakeholders."
– Moira Smith, General Manager Africa & Middle East, Goway Travel
"Grant Fowlds' tireless effort to educate the children of the world, conserve vast expanses of land and save the last rhinos, is truly awe-inspiring. As he travels through Africa, gaining the trust of local governments and councils, we start to understand the scope of his undertakings. He reaches out to organizations around the world to aid him in his progress to expand anti-poaching projects, elephant-relocation programmes and even to assist with bringing the lesser-known, glorious gorillas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the attention of the world. But at the forefront of it all, he is doing all he can to Save the Last Rhinos. We, as a race, need to wake up and get on this train. The more we, as individuals, can do to rally support and spread the word, the better chance we have of not seeing the demise and eventual extinction, not only of rhinos, but of all endangered animals. The rehabilitation and conservation of land in Africa is a vital part of this progress, and Grant Fowlds and his team are at the forefront of this war. Read this book. You will get a sense of Africa like never before, from a true African soul."
– David S. Lee, actor, Limbani in the movie Black Panther