Record Number Of Rhinos Poached Last Year
In 2014, 1,215 rhinos were poached in South Africa setting a new record and representing an increase of 21 per cent over the previous year. To add insult to injury, over two-thirds were killed in the famed Kruger National Park. Over the last few years new records have continuously been set as a result of demand for rhino horns from countries such as Vietnam and China where there is a belief the horns have medicinal properties. As a result the market is very lucrative and has attracted criminal gangs who make use of sophisticated technology to kill their prey.
Rhinos have been moved
Edna Molewa the environment minister for South Africa says over 100 rhinos have been shifted to locations that are more secure including some neighbouring countries in order to make sure the animals remain protected. Ms. Molewa says it is hoped that this method will result in the creation of rhino strongholds where the species can be reproduced cost effectively.
Number of rhinos being poached worrying
Despite the relocation programme being successful, Ms. Molewa says the number of rhinos being killed every year remains worryingly high. She adds that conservation efforts were being undermined by the organised transnational illicit trade in rhino horn. As a result her agency wants to ensure it works with all stake holders in bolstering the measures that have been adopted. Conservationists say the challenge they face to protect these animals from poachers is extreme because they equip themselves with sophisticated tools such as long range rifles and night vision goggles.
“Killing on this scale shows how rhino poaching is being increasingly undertaken by organised criminal syndicates. The country’s brave rangers are doing all they can to protect the rhinos but only a concerted global effort can stop this illegal trade. This includes South Africa scaling up its efforts to stop the poaching and Vietnam taking urgent measures to reduce consumer demand.” said Dr Carlos Drews, WWF’s director of global species programme.
