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As World Rhino Day is celebrated on September 22 each year across the globe, the state of the world’s five rhino species presents a mixed narrative of hope and urgency. While Africa reports a promising increase in rhino populations despite ongoing poaching, Asian species, particularly the Javan and Sumatran rhinos, face severe threats that could lead to their extinction.

According to recent data, Africa’s total rhino count reached an estimated 23,885 by the end of 2023, reflecting a 2.4% increase from the previous year. The growth is largely attributed to the African white rhino population, which surged by 3.7% to approximately 17,464 individuals. However, the continent’s black rhino population of around 6,421 saw a slight decline of 1.0%, primarily due to poaching.

In stark contrast, Asian rhinos remain in a precarious situation, with fewer than 4,100 individuals left. The greater one-horned rhino, found primarily in India and Nepal, holds steady at around 4,018. However, the critically endangered Javan rhino population plummeted to just 76 individuals—a staggering decline of 33% due to poaching incidents that disproportionately targeted breeding males.

In 2023, poachers killed 586 rhinos in Africa, a slight increase from 551 in 2022. South Africa, home to the continent’s largest rhino population, accounted for the majority of these killings, while smaller numbers were reported in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Notably, the continental poaching rate remains at 2.51%, below the critical threshold of 3.5% that could threaten further population growth.

"I derive great hope knowing that rhino numbers in Africa are increasing," said Dr. Dave Balfour, Chair of IUCN's African Rhino Specialist Group. "It tells me that despite the relentless threat of poaching, African range State governments and citizens are rallying to conserve these iconic species."

Meanwhile, the situation in Asia is markedly grim. The Javan rhino population has suffered greatly due to targeted poaching, resulting in a shattered male-to-female ratio that jeopardizes future breeding. Recent investigations by Indonesian authorities led to the arrest and conviction of a poacher responsible for the deaths of 26 rhinos, highlighting the ongoing battle against wildlife crime.

The Sumatran rhino, with a population estimated between 34 and 47, is also at risk, as recent seizures of rhino horns in Sumatra indicate continued demand for rhino products. Experts emphasize the urgent need for enhanced protective measures in remaining rhino habitats.

“To reverse the declining trend of critically endangered Javan and Sumatran rhinos in Indonesia, a National Rhino Task Force could steer recovery efforts,” suggested Dr. Bibhab Talukdar, Chair of IUCN's Asian Rhino Specialist Group.

Image Source: World Rhino Day 22 September