Save the Rhinos

Rhinos contribute to the ecosystem as a ‘keystone species’, impacting seed dispersal, soil fertilisation, creating waterholes through wallowing in mud and maintaining short grass. They also positively affect many other species, including zebras, dung beetles, mongoose, crested guineafowl and oxpeckers.

Poaching and habitat loss have massively impacted rhino populations in Asia and Africa. Javan rhinos were declared extinct in Vietnam in 2011, black rhinos are ‘critically endangered’, and white rhinos are ‘near threatened’. Thankfully, there has been a rise in black rhino populations. Helping Rhinos reported, “Numbers of black rhino dropped by a staggering 96% between 1970 and 1995, but thanks to concerted rhino conservation efforts, their numbers are now rising.”

Poaching poses the greatest threat to rhinos, as the value of rhino horn is estimated at $60,000 per kilogram. TRAFFIC wrote that they are seen as a “symbol of wealth and power” and used as a “luxury purchase by upper-middle class citizens in Viet Nam”. Wildlife managers resorted to cutting off rhino horns as a preventative measure. However, researchers found that dehorning rhinos led to reduced social interaction and a 45% decrease in their range.

Charities like the International Rhino Foundation use many techniques to conserve these critically endangered species. IRF monitors and protects while providing wildlife crime training and habitat management. They also partner with local communities to remove invasive species and promote conservation.

Follow the charities below to find out more about how you can help 🦏

@savetherhinointernational @rhinosirf @wwf @helpingrhinos @traffic_wltrade