The rhino’s full name is rhinoceros. The rhinoceros has existed on earth for over 50 million years! There used to be many species and sub-species of rhinoceros, although today there are only 5 remaining. The Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis), White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum), Indian (Rhinoceros unicornis) and Sumatran (Diceros sumatrensis), and Javan Rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus), all rhinos are endangered, but the later are the most critically endangered. They live mostly in Africa and Asia, around Indonesia and Indochina.
The white rhinoceros is only second in size among land animals to the elephant. The most recognizable feature on a rhino is the large horn, right above their nose; some rhinos have two horns, which are made from compacted hair and keratin. The horn is used to dig in the ground for water and food, guide and defend young rhinos and impress members of the opposite sex. One of the larger reasons why the Rhino is endangered, the horn, a prized possession for poachers, is believed to contain medical properties and acts a symbol of power as it was used as a dagger handle and dubbed as ‘black gold’. Trade of the rhino horn is illegal, although poaching still exists.
further information:
International Rhino Foundation
SOS Rhino
