On Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 14:40 to 15:30, a fascinating documentary will air on BR Fernsehen, showcasing the work of dedicated individuals in Umkhondo, Germany. The program, filmed in 2015, follows the daily activities of animal caretakers and veterinarians as they strive to protect and care for the wildlife in the region.
The documentary begins with the introduction of Dr. Christiane Hagen, a 38-year-old veterinarian who is eager to learn about the handling of wild animals. Upon her arrival at Umkhondo, she is immediately tasked with administering vitamins to the zebras in the reserve. This task sets the tone for her time at Umkhondo, where she will face various challenges and opportunities to work closely with the wildlife.
One of the key highlights of the documentary is the arrival of new Karakale at Umkhondo’s animal rescue station. Susa Ladwig, a biologist from Darmstadt, joins the team to assist with the care of these wild cats. When a neighboring farmer captures two wild Karakale, Susa and the team step in to provide them with shelter and care, preventing them from being harmed by other ranchers in the area.
Another important aspect of the documentary is the feeding of the lions in Umkhondo. The lions in the reserve have their own designated territory to prevent them from roaming freely and causing harm to other animals. The caretakers must regularly provide fresh meat to the male and female lions, sourced from the reserve’s own slaughterhouse. This task requires precision and care to ensure the well-being of the animals.
The documentary also sheds light on the conservation efforts at Monkeyland, a refuge for endangered animals located three hours away from Umkhondo. With over 600 animals residing in the sanctuary, space is limited, necessitating a population control strategy. Julia Ganz, who has traveled from Hamburg, is tasked with conducting a census of the Katta family, a group of primates. If the population is deemed too large, some males may need to be sterilized to maintain a sustainable balance.
Overall, the documentary provides a glimpse into the daily challenges and triumphs of those dedicated to protecting and caring for wildlife in Umkhondo and beyond. Through the efforts of individuals like Dr. Hagen, Susa Ladwig, and Julia Ganz, the animals in these reserves receive the care and attention they need to thrive in their natural habitats.
The program was produced by Sarah Vogl and promises to be an engaging and informative look at the important work being done to preserve and protect wildlife in Germany. Be sure to tune in to BR Fernsehen on Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 14:40 to 15:30 to witness these heartwarming and inspiring stories unfold.
