Prince Harry shares photos from South Africa trip, speaks out against poaching

NELSPRUIT, South Africa, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- Prince Harry has taken to social media to share a collection of stunning photos taken during his summer trip to South Africa.

Posted onto the Kensington Palace Instagram account Wednesday, the photos show Prince Harry meeting with residents, local leaders and feature his visit to South Africa Wildlife College near Kruger National Park.

The photos showcase the 31-year-old royal taking care of various African wildlife who were brutally harmed by poachers. "I was working with Dr. Mark Jago and Dr. Pete Morkel in Namibia," he captioned one shot of himself administering medicine to an ailing black rhino.

"Some countries are de-horning small populations of rhino to deter poachers from shooting them. It is a short-term solution and surely no substitute for professional and well-trained rangers protecting these highly sought-after animals."

Another powerful photo shows Prince Harry hugging a resting elephant. "After a very long day in Kruger National Park, with five rhinos sent to new homes and three elephants freed from their collars — like this sedated female — I decided to take a moment," he captioned the picture. "I know how lucky I am to have these experiences, but hearing stories from people on the ground about how bad the situation really is, upset and frustrated me."

Prince Harry would also comment that the slaughter of these animals was a "pointless waste of beauty."

Prince Harry last made headlines in November when he shared an emotional moment with a wounded U.S. Marine.