For about 65 million years rhinos have roamed on our planet. During our life time we will have to act to ensure their future. This is the first of the “Big Five” that has reached this point – but it will not be the last. The five sub-species of rhino are all endangered and South Africa is home to the vast majority of the remaining animals (mainly white rhinos) it is therefore the epicentre of the poaching problem. The White Rhino is the second largest land mammal on our planet but incredibly many are unaware that the value of it’s horn, primarily in Asia, is driving it to extinction. One rhino is poached every eight hours and the next generation is going with them as unborn and helpless orphans. Without this keystone mega-herbivore in the ecosystem, many other species will be impacted.
It is not too late if collectively, a decision is made that making room for the diversity of life on our planet is a priority. We follow a three point directive of rescuing orphans (for release into the secure areas of the wild), protecting animals from poaching by all means possible and educating people from children upwards on practical ways to value our global inheritance.
We all need to consider if we will be passive about losing these animals for ever on our watch. Join Rhino Revolution UK and we can ensure your meaningful involvement in saving these species.
Photo credit Phil Ovens, (Retired) CEO RRSA.