Namibia’s conservation community is mourning the death of prominent wildlife conservationist Jaco Muller, who died in a gyrocopter crash in the Kunene region.

Muller, founder of the Rhino Momma Project, died on Saturday while reportedly monitoring wildlife and tracking bushfires in the region, according to The Namibian.

The Rhino Momma Project described Muller as the driving force behind its work to protect and breed white rhinoceros, while fellow conservationists paid tribute to his contribution to the fight against rhino poaching.

Tributes have also come from organisations and individuals who worked with Muller, describing his commitment to wildlife protection and his role in supporting conservation initiatives.

His death leaves a significant loss for Namibia’s private conservation community, with the Rhino Momma Project saying the work he began will continue through the animals and conservation efforts he helped establish.