Crisis Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is home to the fourth largest population of black rhinos in the worlds population is in severe danger due to poaching for their horn. In 2008, Zimbabwes black rhino (Diceros bicornis) population numbered 490 individuals. The black rhino is classified as Critically Endangered, with a worldwide population of only 4,240. During the last century, the black rhino has suffered the most drastic decline in total numbers of all rhino species. Between 1970 and 1992, the population of this species decreased by 96%. In 1970, there were approximately 65,000 black rhinos in Africa; but, by 1993, only 2,300 survived in the wild. Since 1996, thanks to intensive anti-poaching efforts overall numbers are recovering and still are slowly increasing. The growing purchasing power of many Asian countries, combined with organized gangs of poachers who have an outlet for selling rhino horn on has kept the poaching threat great. To save the species, anti-poaching efforts must be continued and accelerated. The IRF-supported Lowveld Rhino Project is working to save Zimbabwes rhinos from poachers by translocating rhinos from high-risk areas to safer locations; treating rhinos with snare wounds and other injuries and returning them to the wild; helping authorities track, apprehend, and prosecute poachers; and intensively tracking and monitoring rhinos to ensure their safety.