Nature organisations and reserves, are celebrating a decline of rhino poaching by more than 15% in South Africa, which has pushed the African continent’s figures, to a low of 7%.
According to a report by the International Rhino Foundation, there are now 6,788, in Africa, up slightly from the last count of 6,195, back in 2022.
The number of white rhino on the continent has dropped from 17,464 in 2023, to a current 15,752.
Rhino populations in South Africa, are now below those recommended by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Experts at the Foundation have recommended a new tracking tool be established, to closely monitor rhinos who have had horns trimmed.
The Javan rhinos declined from an estimated 76 to approximately 50, due to poaching, while the Sumatran rhino population, remained the same at an estimated between 34-47, while greater one-horned rhino numbers rose from 4,014 to 4,075.
All eyes are on the 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP) global wildlife trade agreement, scheduled for later this year.
The CoP, is expected to chart next steps, in efforts to protect rhino globally.
The International Rhino Foundation (IRF) and Save the Rhino International, will facilitate a panel of discussion with rhino conservation, wildlife trade and law enforcement experts, as well as representatives from rhino range states and CITES Parties affected by the illegal rhino horn trade.
Picture of Dara, one of 4 Southern white rhinos at the Colchester Zoo, by Jamie Reeve.