Rhino Poaching Reaches 15-Year High

in Conservation by Araneta&Tan — July 22, 2009 at 12:03 pm | 2 comments

There is something prehistoric about rhinos. Seeing them at a distance you can almost convince yourself that you are looking upon a scene from thousands of years ago. These fantastic creatures are the highlight of any safari to Tanzania or elsewhere in Africa, but they have long been threatened by poaching. Sadly, it has now been reported that rhino poaching has hit a 15-year high.

According to a briefing from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, the situation is starting to get out of control. Rhinos are being poisoned at their watering holes or shot by poachers who then cut off their horns to sell. It is an international problem across Africa and Asia, and some experts are now predicting that it could see rhinos become extinct in the near future.

It’s sad news for anyone who cares about rhinos. These fascinating creatures have long been hunted for their horns, which are used in traditional medicine in the Far East as well as for knife handles. It’s such a waste of a wonderful animal, and such has been the problem that conservationists have been known to cut off their horns after sedating them to lower the levels of rhino poaching.

If you want to see rhinos in their natural habitat then one of the best places to head is Tanzania. Although they can be found in many countries, Tanzania has a huge number of national parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorogogo Crater and the enormous Selous Game Reserve, the biggest and wildest of the lot. Head to any of these areas and there’s a good chance you’ll be able to see and take photos of rhinos.

Alternatively, you could opt to join a rhino conservation programme. Due to their endangered status you could help them by combining a holiday with a rhino conservation programme that aims to protect them. You could even go on a safari and stay in a lodge that boasts eco credentials which is another way to help.

Alternatively, if you can’t go to see them yourself then you could help by supporting a rhino conservation charity. One of the biggest of these is Save the Rhino International, and supporting this charity will mean you are directly helping to save these marvellous creatures from extinction. Another charity is the Selous Rhino Trust, which monitors black rhinos in the Selous Game Reserve following their reappearance in 1990 after they were thought to have become extinct there.

It is sad to hear that rhino poaching has not gone away and has risen to a 15-year high. But there are many ways that you can help to save them. Whether you join a charity or you go to Tanzania to see them in the wild, you can be sure that you are doing your bit for their welfare. And if you manage to take some great photos of them when you are over there, perhaps your snaps will help to inspire others to care for these wonderful creatures.

Tags: anti-poaching charities Rhinos