Why Are Rhinos Being Poached in South Africa
What is a rhino?
Rhinos, also known as a Rhinoceros, are large, herbivorous mammals with horned snouts.
Why are they called rhinoceros?
The word rhinoceros is a combination of two Greek words – rhino (nose) and ceros (horn).
What are the species of rhino?
1. Black rhinos
2. White rhinos
3. Indian rhinos
5. Javan rhinos
6. Black rhinos
How many Javan rhinos exist in the world in 2022?
The Javan rhino population around the world is 76 individuals in 2022.
Who eats Javan rhinos?
Predators of Javan Rhinoceroses include humans and wild cats like Cheetahs and lions.
How many black rhinos exist in the world in 2022?
The black rhino population around the world is 5,500 individuals in 2022.
What is poaching?
Poaching is the illegal trafficking and killing of wildlife.
Why do people poach?
People typically poach wild animals to create traditional medicines, to serve as delicacies or to keep as exotic pets.
Why are rhinos being poached in South Africa?
The ongoing poaching of rhinos in South Africa is being carried out to meet the high demand for their horns in Asian countries, where the horn is primarily used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is also increasingly being used as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
What is the global market value of rhino horn?
According to the World Animal Foundation, these horns sell on the black market for an average of $60,000 per kilogram. Asian rhino horns can fetch up to US$400,000 per kg, while African rhino horns can fetch up to US$20,000 per kg.
How many rhinos are poached in South Africa in 2022?
2022 Poaching statistics shows that 259 rhinos were poached in South Africa in 2022 with 210 on state properties and 49 in privately-owned parks
