Shamwari game reserve in the Eastern Cape - named “World's leading conservation company” in 2009 - is the backdrop for an exciting new ITV Studios wildlife series called Safari Vet School, featuring British TV vet Steve Leonard.
Each of twelve 30-minute episodes will follow a group of students vets, mostly from UK veterinary schools, as they come face to face with Africa's “big five” for the first time during an action-packed 16-day stay at Shamwari.
Working with top wildlife vets alongside the Shamwari wildlife team, the students will experience Africa's wild animals “in the wild”, learning skills ranging from basic capture techniques to wildlife relocation, at Shamwari and in the nearby Addo elephant park.
They'll even get the chance to dart wildlife on the move from helicopters.
Leonard said: “It's great to be back in Africa working with the big, iconic species - and some of the funny little creatures as well.
“This project is very much hands-on: I get the chance to use my veterinary skills and get my hands dirty - and nearly bitten!”
Dr Johan Joubert, wildlife director at Shamwari, commented: “Our Vets Go Wild programme is a fantastic opportunity for budding vets to experience dealing with some of the world's most exciting, dangerous and, indeed, endangered animals.
“We're passionate about conservation at Shamwari and we hope that this TV series will inspire the next generation of wildlife lovers.” - IOL