National Geographic Pictures of the Year

I am honored that this hopeful step to save the northern white rhinos from extinction has been selected as both one of National Geographic’s best pictures of the year as well as the 2024 selection for its list of most compelling images of the 21st century.

The image, which is both heartbreaking and groundbreaking, is of Prof. Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt cradling a southern white rhino fetus that was produced by implantation of an embryo using in vitro fertilization (IVF). This tiny creature confirmed the creation of the world’s first successful IVF rhino pregnancy by the BioRescue Project. Tragically the 70-day-old rhinoceros fetus’ life was cut short when his surrogate mother succumbed to a swift and deadly bacterial infection triggered by heavy rainfall and flooding.

The devastating news of the loss of both mother and fetus came as a profound blow to the BioRescue team. These dedicated individuals have been tirelessly working for years to rescue the northern white rhino species from extinction. The next pivotal step is to transfer northern white rhino embryos into a surrogate mother.

This work documenting steps to save these northern white rhinos over the past 15 years is featured in Explorer: Rhino Resurrection, a forthcoming National Geographic film. I look forward to sharing more soon!

Thank you to the BioRescue Project, Safari Park Dvůr Králové, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Avantea and Kenya Wildlife Service for your endless dedication and determination. I am grateful to be able to be able to witness and share your powerful journey. Heartfelt thanks to Sadie Querrier and the entire National Geographic team for honoring this profound moment and sharing this story.