Intl Rhino Foundation

IRF Staff & Advisors

Fri, 09 May 2008 15:57:06 GMT

STAFF Susie Ellis, PhD Executive Director Margaret Moore Development Officer Robin Radcliffe, DVM Rhino Conservation Medicine Program SPECIAL ADVISORS Dr. Dedi Candra Collection Manager Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary Sumadi Hasmaran Facilities Manager Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary M. Waladi Isnan Program Manager Indonesian RPU Program Drs. Arief Rubianto Field Supervisor Indonesian RPU Program Secionov IRF Indonesia Liaison PRO-BONO STAFF AND ADVISORS Much of the administrative and creative support for IRF is donated pro-bono (i.e., without cost) by the generous institutions and organizations represented on the IRF Board. This allows administrative costs to be kept to minimum and for other donations to directly fund IRF field conservation programs. Michelle Burke White Oak Conservation Center (IT Advisor) Jean Cha Bass Enterprises (Finance Assistant) Justin Conway ...

Green Tips: Everyday Actions You Can Take to Reduce Climate Change

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:43:20 GMT

See the light. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs. These energy-efficient bulbs help fight climate change because they reduce the amount of fossil fuels that utilities burn. You will save 100 pounds of carbon for each incandescent bulb that you replace with a compact fluorescent, over the life of the bulb. And remember to turn off the lights every time you leave a room! Recycle and use recycled products. Products made from recycled paper, glass, metal and plastic reduce carbon emissions because they use less energy to manufacture than products made from completely new materials. For instance, you’ll save two pounds of carbon for every 20 glass bottles that you recycle. Recycling paper also saves trees and lets them continue to reduce climate change naturally as they remain in the forest, where they remove carbon from the atmosphere. Travel light. Walk or bike instead of driving a car. Cars and trucks run on fossil fuels, which release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In the...

Mothers Day Gift Ideas

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:16:52 GMT

Looking for a unique Mother’s or Father’s Day gift? This year, give your mom or dad a gift they’ll never forget – “adopt” a Sumatran rhino in their honor, and you’ll be giving a gift that will last for years to come.

The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary, a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild.

With a donation of only $30, you can feed and care for a rhino for 2 days; a $60 donation will pay for 4 days. Your donation also ensures veterinary care and upkeep of your rhino’s habitat, and might even help to result in the birth of a new rhino baby!

In honor of your adoption, your mom or dad will receive an adoption certificate and a photo and bio of his or her rhino, as well as regular updates on the rhino and IRF’s work to protect and conserve rhinos worldwide.

So give the gift of conservation, and help to protect the critically endangered Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary. Learn more about the rhinos available for adoption and adopt a rhino for Mother’s or Father’s Day today!

(Please submit your Mother’s Day adoption request by May 6 and Father’s Day adoption request by June 10 to ensure that they’ll receive the adoption package in time.)

Go Green This Spring! Support Rhino Conservation

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 01:04:55 GMT

Wildlife conservation begins with each of us - and you too can make a difference. Make a resolution to go green this spring! Raise Money for Rhino Conservation IRF depends on donations from individuals like you to fund rhino conservation programs around the world. You can support our efforts to save rhinos from extinction by making a donation today. Or, celebrate Earth Day or a spring birthday by adopting a rhino for a friend or loved one! You can also help to raise money and awareness by hosting a fundraising event for IRF within your school or community. Get started on your spring cleaning by hosting a garage sale and donating the proceeds towards rhino conservation! Visit this page to get more great fundraising ideas and learn about how people just like you - including kids - have raised money for rhino conservation. Shop (or Sell) for a Cause Looking for an easy way to help save rhinos? Go shopping! Before you begin shopping for your new spring wardrobe online this...

Projects in the Field

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 01:22:44 GMT

Rhino Translocation in Assam, India - A First Hand Account by Sujoy Banerjee
Director, Species Conservation, WWF-India

It was a long wait for this day. Over the past 1.5 years, Manas National Park, the eventual home of the translocated rhinos, went through a major reconstruction process and the security was scaled up through construction of protection camps and posting of extra staff and volunteers. The habitat was monitored and found suitable for the rhinos. Read more on the IRF Blog.

View the translocation
photo album.

Graduation Gift Ideas

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:26:21 GMT

Looking for a unique gift for a high school or college graduate?
Give your grad the gift of conservation and help to save one of the most endangered animals in the world - adopt a rhino!

The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary, a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild.

With a donation of only $30, you can feed and care for a rhino for 2 days; a $60 donation will pay for 4 days. Your donation also ensures veterinary care and upkeep of your rhino’s habitat, and might even help to result in the birth of a new rhino baby!

In honor of your adoption, your grad will receive an adoption certificate and a photo and bio of his or her rhino, as well as regular updates on the rhino and IRF’s work to protect and conserve rhinos worldwide.

So honor your graduate this May and help to protect the critically endangered Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary. Learn more about the rhinos available for adoption and adopt a rhino for a friend or loved one today!

Levels of Support

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:55:50 GMT

By joining IRF today, you will be welcomed into a family of dedicated individuals committed to saving rhinos throughout their range states. Not only will you have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping to ensure the long-term survival of all five living rhino species, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about rhino conservation and interact with scientists working to save rhinos in the wild. Make a gift to the International Rhino Foundation, and you will join one of the following giving circles: Levels of Support Friend ($1 to $99) All donors to the International Rhino Foundation will be recognized on IRF’s website and other publications, and will receive a subscription to our regular e-newsletter and our annual report. Advocate ($100 to $499) In addition to the benefits of a standard membership, Advocates will receive a DVD showcasing the efforts and successes of...

Support the IRF

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:55:31 GMT

Rhinos desperately need your help! Contribute today and become a partner in IRF’s efforts to protect endangered rhinos in the wild. Use our secure server to make an online donation today using your credit or debit card. Or if you prefer, you can mail a check to IRF at: International Rhino Foundation 581705 White Oak Road Yulee, Florida 32097-2145 A gift of $50 will enable Indonesia’s Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary to provide five days of food, medicine and care for one Sumatran rhino. A gift of $100 will fund one rhino protection unit -- five rangers -- in Indonesia’s Ujung Kulon National Park while they patrol the park and prevent poaching of Javan rhinos and other animals for four days. A gift of $500 will pay for two satellite radios for Tanzanian rangers to use to immediately report indications of black rhino poachers, so that they can be apprehended and prosecuted. A...

What You Can Do

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 20:19:34 GMT

IRF works around the world to protect endangered rhinos and conserve their habitats. But wildlife conservation begins with each of us - and you too can make a difference. Learn more about ways you can help to save rhinos! Raise Money for Rhino Conservation. IRF depends on donations from individuals like you to fund rhino conservation programs around the world. You can support our efforts to save rhinos from extinction by making an online contribution today. You can also help to raise money and awareness by hosting a fundraising event for IRF within your school or community. Host a bake sale or rummage sale and donate the proceeds towards rhino conservation! Instead of birthday gifts, ask friends and relatives to adopt a rhino on your behalf, or donate money to IRF! Visit this page to get more great fundraising ideas and learn about how people just like you - including kids - have raised money for rhino conservation. Use GoodSearch.com to help Rhinos! What if the International...

2007 Supporters

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:53:48 GMT

We are honored to acknowledge the individuals, foundations, zoos, businesses and others who are helping to save endangered rhinos around the world by donating to IRF’s work. Defenders ($25,000 +) American Association of ZooKeepers/ Bowling for Rhinos Anna Mertz Asian Rhino Project Basel Zoo Lee & Ramona Bass Foundation Cincinnati Zoo Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund Disney Worldwide Service EAZA Rhino Campaign Ecko LLC Peter Hall / Hunter Hall International Limited Houston Zoo Minnesota Zoo Foundation National Fish and Wildlife Foundation – Save the Tiger Fund SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund Tapeats Fund U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service White Oak Conservation Center, Inc. ...

Stay Informed

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 16:23:23 GMT

One of the easiest ways to get involved with saving rhinos is to be more aware of their conservation status and the efforts to save them. Tell us what you want -- sign up to receive our RSS Feeds for Press Releases, Action Alerts and Blog posts. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST IRF publishes a quarterly e-newsletter with news and updates about rhino conservation. Sign up now to receive our newsletter, along with other important rhino announcements! RHINOS IN THE NEWS Sign up for our RSS feeds to get the latest news about rhinos hot off the press! SUBSCRIBE TO OUR BLOG Keep up with rhino news stories from the field - visit the IRF blog and add it to your RSS feeds. MAKE FRIENDS WITH A RHINO! Andalas, who is living in the sanctuary at Way Kambas National Park now has his own MySpace page. Visit today to learn more about his life and personality. Add him to your top 5 friends and spread the word! RHINOS ON YOU TUBE Check out rhino videos on...

Ways to Give

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 15:13:55 GMT

The International Rhino Foundation’s success in saving rhino populations around the world depends on communities, businesses, and people like you. There are several methods by which you can help: DONATE ONLINE Make an online donation over our secure server using your credit or debit card. DONATE BY MAIL Mail a check made payable to International Rhino Foundation and mail to: International Rhino Foundation 581705 White Oak Road Yulee, Florida 32097-2145 DONATE BY PHONE Call 571.312.4313 to make a donation over the phone using your credit or debit card. BECOME A MEMBER By joining IRF today, you will be welcomed into a family of dedicated individuals committed to saving rhinos throughout their range states. Click here learn more about the benefits of membership! MAKE A MONTHLY DONATION When you make a monthly commitment to IRF, you will help to provide the stable flow of support that is vital for our critical conservation efforts. Click on...

African Rhino Specialist Group, IUCN Species Survivial Commission

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 20:29:55 GMT

The African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG), like its counterpart in the Asian Rhino Specialist Group (AsRSG) is among the 100+ Specialist Groups in the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of IUCN - The World Conservation Union. Its mission is to promote the development and long term maintenance of viable populations of the various sub-species of African rhinos in the wild. Its membership consists of official country representatives from the main range states and a number of specialist members covering a wide range of skills. The AfRSG routinely develops and promotes recommended best practices for a range of rhino conservation activities and has produced an Action Plan for the conservation of rhino species. The Group has also developed a system for priority rating both populations and potential projects for their continental importance to assist donors spend their money effectively. AfRSG members have for many years been actively involved in a number of regional rhino conservation...

Zimbabwe

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 19:35:10 GMT

Rhinos are among the most threatened mammals on the planet – sadly, a number of populations have all but disappeared. Black rhino (Diceros bicornis) populations were particularly hard-hit over the past few decades, with poaching in the 1980s taking a terrible toll. Starting with East Africa, the rhino crisis intensified to the point where Zambia’s rhinos (perhaps 3,000) were completely wiped out by poachers. At around the same time, the species also was extirpated in Botswana. Another 1,600 black rhinos were killed in Zimbabwe before conservation actions stabilized and eventually reversed the situation. ZIMBABWE By the late 1980s and early 1990s, cross-border poaching had reduced Zimbabwe’s once-large black rhino numbers from about 2,000 to 500 individuals, with populations declining to a low of 370 individuals in 1993. At that point, a national rhino conservation strategy led to the development of intensive protection zones within national parks. A rhino custodianship scheme also...

Board of Directors

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:23:44 GMT

The IRF Board consists of 16 individuals from three continents and many major conservation organizations: Rick Barongi The Houston Zoo - Houston, Texas USA - IRF Vice President for Africa Rick Barongi has been working in the zoo and wildlife conservation field for over 35 years. He has a B.S. from Cornell University and M.S. from Rutgers University. He has been the Director of the Houston Zoo since 2000. In the past seven years the Houston zoo has privatized its operation from the City and increased its budget from $12 million to over $22 million per year. Its annual attendance is just over 1.5 million a year which ranks it in the top 10 AZA zoos in the country. Prior to Houston, Rick held the position of Director of Animal Programs for Walt Disney World. He played a key role in the design, construction and opening of Disneys Animal Kingdom, a one billion dollar theme park. He created the first Disney Advisory Board for the Animal Kingdom park and helped to engineer the concept...

Video Room

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 22:10:42 GMT

Rhinos at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary (SRS), a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild. At the sanctuary, the rhinos reside in large, open areas where they can experience a natural rain forest habitat while still receiving state-of-the-art veterinary care and nutrition. With the recent addition of Andalas (the first Sumatran rhino born in captivity in more than 112 years!) to the SRS’s population of one male and three female Sumatran rhinos, the SRS is well-poised to breed rhinos in the coming years, and to contribute in a major way to our understanding of the basic biology of the species. You can help to protect the Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary! ...

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Wed, 27 Feb 2008 02:30:32 GMT

About the IRF

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 17:01:51 GMT

MISSION

The International Rhino Foundation (IRF) is dedicated to the survival of the world’s rhino species through conservation and research.

The IRF:

provides the technical (scientific, educational, administrative) and financial resources necessary to facilitate the conservation of rhinos.
coordinates the resources and communications of a diverse array of rhino conservation partners, to maximize effect, while minimizing duplication.
provides technical and administrative services for captive programs (regionally and globally).
provides the linkage between captive programs, and wild populations.
supports applied research that targets the problems affecting the survivability of rhinos.
promotes the involvement of local communities in the conservation of rhinos.
advances the expertise of range-state professionals through training.
creates enduring (self sustaining) rhino conservation programs through “facilitative” and “catalytic” approaches
gives priority for its resources application of resources to issues related to species-level conservation.
is recognized as a trusted resource for relevant rhino information.

Adopt a Rhino

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 01:54:47 GMT

The Sumatran rhinoceros is one of the most endangered mammals on Earth. Fewer than 300 animals survive in small, isolated forest fragments in Indonesia and Malaysia. You can help to protect the Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary! The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary (SRS), a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild. At the sanctuary, the rhinos reside in large, open areas where they can experience a natural rainforest habitat while still receiving state-of-the-art veterinary care and nutrition. You may choose to adopt any of the five rhinos at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary for as many days as you would like, either in your own name, or as a gift for a relative or friend who supports wildlife conservation! In honor of each adoption, your...

Nicolaas Jan van Strien (April 1, 1946-February 7, 2008)

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 14:23:18 GMT

View photo gallery. Too soon, the rhino world has lost another great conservation leader. Dr. Nico van Strien, 61, IRF Asian Program Coordinator, died peacefully on February 7th in Doorn, the Netherlands, following a year-long battle with cancer. Nico, as he was known to colleagues, was, without a doubt, the world’s authority on both Sumatran and Javan rhinos, having studied and authored numerous scientific papers on both species. He dedicated more than 30 years of his life to rhinos. Dr. van Strien earned a M.Sc. in 1971 at the Free University of Amsterdam, and a Ph.D. in 1985 in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University, Netherlands. His doctoral dissertation work, for which he spent 5 years in and walked 3,800 km through the Gunung Leuser Ecosystem, remains the definitive work on the ecology of Sumatran rhinos. Nico worked in a number of countries during his career, including in Malawi where he worked as a biology lecturer at Chancellors College. He also provided...

Valentines Day Gift Ideas

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 18:50:33 GMT

Flowers wilt, and that box of chocolates just could go straight to your hips! So do something different for your nearest and dearest this Valentine’s Day – “adopt” a Sumatran rhino for your loved ones, and give a gift that will last for years to come.

The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary, a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild.

In honor of your adoption, your sweetheart will receive an adoption certificate and a photo and bio of his or her rhino, as well as regular updates on the rhino and IRF’s work to protect and conserve rhinos worldwide.

So spread the love this Valentine’s Day, and help to protect the critically endangered Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary. Learn more about the rhinos available for adoption and adopt a rhino for a friend or loved one today!

(Please submit your adoption request by February 8 to ensure that you’ll receive the adoption package by Valentine’s Day.)

Just for Kids

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:24:39 GMT

Rhino Origami: Download this easy guide sheet so you can make your very own origami rhino! Rhino Cards Zimbabwe: The Rhino Cards are an education pack for children and teacher that were developed for use in Zimbabwe by the SADC Regional Program for Rhino Conservation. Rhino Cards Zimbabwe (Teachers Guide): The Teachers pages contain additional information on rhino conservation issues and a section containing guildelines for the use of the Rhino Cards and suggested class exercises. Make Your Own Savannah: Color your own savannah and then place your animals in their habitat. Designed by Givskud Zoo. Get Involved! You can help rhinos! Visit our fundraising idea page to get ideas on how you can raise awareness about rhino conservation! Rhino Silhouettes: Silhouettes of three rhino species so the sizes can be compared. Also includes rhino footprints. Black Rhino ...

Are you looking for a way to make a difference?

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:50:25 GMT

The International Rhino Foundation is working around the world to protect rhinos, but there’s so much each of us can do right at home, too – every day – to make a difference. Learn more about how people just like you have hosted fundraising events to raise awareness and money for rhino conservation and help IRF to save rhinos from extinction! Bake Sale. The students in Mrs. Slavicks class at Cook Elementary School in Goshen, Ohio decided to make a difference! The students learned about endangered species and their importance and made a trip to the Cincinnati Zoo to get a closer look at the animals. The students in the class then decorated cookies and cupcakes that were sold at a bake sale to raise money for rhino conservation. Change Drive. Several years ago, Loretta Platt, a third grade teacher at Como Elementary School from Columbus, Ohio, was looking for a school-wide project to heighten the students environmental awareness. She decided on a penny collection as a...

Need a unique gift for the person who has everything?

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:03:18 GMT

We have just ended IRF’s Endangered Feces auction, ending with a total of 76 eBay bids, with a high bid of $1,075 for the white rhino specimen. We can’t wait to learn about the folks getting these special gifts.

The real winners, of course, are the rhinos. People are now more aware about the plight facing rhinos and are acting to help IRF to save them. During the 10-day auction, we received nearly 11,000 visits to our website from 97 countries, 72 new readers subscribed to our e-newsletter, and online contributions, including rhino adoptions, are increasing significantly. The message that touched us most, accompanied by a $200 donation, was, “Merry Christmas from the deserts of Iraq and this deployed Marine.”

The Endangered Feces auction was easily one of the wackier projects IRF has ever undertaken. But it captured people’s imaginations and generated interest in rhinos all over the world. Media coverage reached at least 3.5 million people. There are more than 200,000 references to “rhino poop” on Google, and our YouTube video had more than 500 viewings – and a several 5-star ratings!

Throughout its 14-year history, one of IRF’s primary aims has been to encourage people to learn more about these magnificent creatures. Rhinos have a reputation as being tough guys - but in reality they are quite fragile and the challenge to preserve populations worldwide has never been greater. Together, we will face this challenge with optimism and determination to ensure a future for these magnificent species.

Thanks to each of you for your interest and support in the IRF and its work.

Rhino Resource Center

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:24:45 GMT

The Rhino Resource Center is the world’s best source of information about rhino conservation, research, veterinary medicine, and husbandry worldwide. The Rhino Resource Center collects all known publications and maintains archives on all published work on rhinoceros. Search the Rhino Resource Center for everything you ever wanted to know about rhinos - information, photos, and links to other rhino websites!

Teacher Resources

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:24:02 GMT

Here you will find information resources for use by Teacher/Youth Leaders. Keep checking back as we will add more information soon! Compendium of Rhino Resources and audio & video material for Teachers and Youth Leaders. Rhino Cards Zimbabwe: The Rhino Cards are an education pack for children and teacher that were developed for use in Zimbabwe by the SADC Regional Program for Rhino Conservation. Rhino Cards Zimbabwe (Teachers Guide): The Teachers pages contain additional information on rhino conservation issues and a section containing guildelines for the use of the Rhino Cards and suggested class exercises. Make Your Own Savannah: Color your own savannah and then place your animals in their habitat. Designed by Givskud Zoo. Get Involved! You can help rhinos! Visit our fundraising idea page to get ideas on how you can raise awareness about rhino conservation!

Get Involved

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:12:39 GMT

There are many ways that you can get involved in rhino conservation! Start simple by just staying informed about rhinos conservation.

Also, learn about the many ways you can help rhinos by just doing a few things differently in your own home!

We have plenty of resources for kids and teachers too!

Holiday Gift Ideas

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:11:30 GMT

This year, you can give the animal lover in your life a gift that will help to save rhinos! Adopt a Rhino You can help to protect the critically endangered Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary. The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary, a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild. With a donation of only $30, you can feed and care for a rhino for 2 days; a $60 donation will pay for 4 days. Your donation also ensures veterinary care and upkeep of your rhino’s habitat. In honor of each adoption, your gift recipient will receive an adoption certificate and a photo and bio of his or her rhino, as well as regular updates on the rhino and IRF’s work to protect and conserve rhinos worldwide. Learn more about the rhinos available for adoption and...

Professional Tools

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:38:46 GMT

Rhino Resource Center The Rhino Resource Center is the world’s best source of information about rhino conservation, research, veterinary medicine, and husbandry worldwide. The Rhino Resource Center collects all known publications and maintains archives on all published work on rhinoceros. Search the Rhino Resource Center for everything you ever wanted to know about rhinos - information, photos, and links to other rhino websites! African Rhino Specialist Group (IUCN Species Survival Commission) The African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG), like its counterpart in the Asian Rhino Specialist Group (AsRSG) is among the 100+ Specialist Groups in the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of IUCN - The World Conservation Union. Both the AfRSG and AsRSG have developed Action Plans for conservation of rhino species in their regions. These action plans provide very specific recommendations and propose detailed projects with the goal of ensuring survival and recovery of all rhino...

Rhino Captive Programs

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:36:51 GMT

The IRF believes that development of viable captive populations is vital to the success of rhino conservation. Protection in the wild is by far the optimal and preferred method for conserving rhinos. However, in situ conservation is fraught with difficulty and uncertainty. Hence, captive populations and programs are an insurance policy that should and can be part of a diversified strategy for rhino conservation that maximizes options and minimizes regrets. Rhino Taxon Advisory Group Association of Zoos and Aquariums Contact: Steve Shurter, Chair White Oak Conservation Center 581705 White Oak Road Yulee, FL, USA 32097 The AZA Rhino Taxon Advisory Group (or Rhino TAG) of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a committee comprising the species coordinators, studbook keepers, and other rhino experts who manage the captive populations and programs for rhinos in North American zoos. The Rhino TAG develops a masterplan for managing and breeding rhinos which provides...

Conservation Medicine

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:36:11 GMT

The Rhino Conservation Medicine Program, a unique collaboration between the International Rhino Foundation, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, and the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, provides high-level veterinary medical support for global rhino conservation efforts both in the wild and in captivity. The Rhino Conservation Medicine Program has three fundamental objectives: 1) to provide health care service for global rhino conservation programs in Asia and Africa; 2) to provide unique training and educational opportunities for American and Indonesian veterinary students focused on rhino treatment and research; and 3) to educate local children and communities about the importance of protecting rhinos. Currently, the Rhino Conservation Medicine primarily supports the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary (SRS), located in Way Kambas National Park, Indonesia. (The SRS is an approximately 250 acre center devoted to propagation, research and education. The sanctuary is now home to five...

Africa Programs

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:26:13 GMT

Africa is home to two rhino species – black rhinos (Diceros bicornis) and white rhinos (Ceratotherium simum). During the nineteenth century, southern white rhinos were decimated by poaching and habitat destruction in South Africa. By the turn of the twentieth century, there were fewer than 200 animals left. But, thanks to the dedicated efforts of conservationists, researchers and concerned individuals (especially in South Africa), southern white rhinos were protected and have recovered to about 14,500 individuals. They are now the most abundant rhino species in the world – their population is more than all the other individuals of all the other species of rhinos put together! – and they range throughout South Africa. Because this species has recovered so well and is now the least threatened of all rhino species, the International Rhino Foundation currently concentrates most of its efforts in Africa on protection of black rhinos, which still face a significant threat of extinction. ...

IRF Programs in Asia

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:25:46 GMT

IRF has from its inception concentrated its Asian Programs on the Sumatran Rhino, probably the most endangered of all rhino species. More recently, IRF has extended its programs to the Javan Rhino. IRF has also selectively assists conservation efforts for Indian Rhino and is working with other organizations on a major program that could provide long-term financial support to protect this species in the wild. IRF programs reflect the dual and diversified strategy of protection in the wild and propagation in captivity or semi-captivity. About 250 Sumatran rhinos remain on Indonesia’s Sumatra island, where the population has declined at a rate of 50% over the past 10 years, largely from deforestation and habitat fragmentation. IRF focuses its work in heavily encroached areas near Way Kambas and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Parks. Only four poaching events have been recorded in the past 3 years because of the remarkable work and dedication of the Rhino Protection Units providing...

Research

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:25:20 GMT

Beyond support for applied research to enhance viability of captive populations, IRF provides many technical and coordinating services to the organized programs for management and propagation of rhinos in captivity. In North America, the scientific and coordinated propagation and management programs are known as the Species Survival Plan (SSP) and are managed through the AZA Rhino Taxon Advisory Group (Rhino TAG). The IRF Program Office provides the technical support for population management by the SSP and Rhino TAG. Programs analogous to the SSPs operate in other regions (e.g. the ASMP in Australasia and the EEP in Europe). IRF has facilitated exchanges of rhino and other cooperation between these regional programs. IRF-Supported Research In 2006/2007, the IRF partially or fully-funded the following research projects: The Relationship Between Fetal Corticoids as a Measure of Stress and Amino Acid Status on the Onset of Superficial Necrolytic Dermatitis (SND) in Captive...

Conservation & Research

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:22:32 GMT

In response to the global crisis in rhino conservation, the International Rhino Foundation protects particularly threatened rhino populations in the wild, while also supporting management of and research on captive populations to improve the chances for long-term survival of all rhino species. We have already made great strides in preventing further declines of these magnificent animals and turning rhino population trends around in the areas in which we work. IRF operates in situ (in nature) programs in Asia and Africa targeted to the rhino species most in need of and most appropriate for intensive protection and management. In our ex situ (in captivity) programs, IRF facilitates management and sponsors research with the ultimate objective of helping captive populations become truly viable and hence an integral part of conservation strategies for rhinos. Click on the links below for more information! Captive Populations ...

Woolly Rhino (Coelodonta antiquitatis)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:21:34 GMT

Common Names Woolly Rhino: This rhinos entire body was covered with a thick and shaggy coat consisting of two types of hair, a thin dense undercoat and a long rigid covering hair. Scientific Name and Origin Coelodonta antiquitatis Coelodonta: from the Greek hallow teeth antiquitatis: from the Latin antiquus meaning old The Woolly Rhino, (Coelodonta antiquitatis) first appeared some 350,000 years ago and may have survived until as recently as 10,000 years ago. Their fossils are not uncommon and have been discovered throughout Europe and Asia, although apparently they did not manage to extend their distribution into North America or to Ireland. Well-preserved remains have been discovered frozen in ice and buried in oil-saturated soils. At Staruni in what is now the Ukraine, a complete carcass of a female Woolly Rhino was discovered buried in...

White Rhino (Ceratotherum simum)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:20:08 GMT

Common Names White rhinoceros is taken from the Afrikaans word describing its mouth: weit, meaning wide. Early English settlers in South Africa misinterpreted the weit for white. White rhinos are also sometimes called the square-lipped rhinoceros. Its upper lip lacks the prehensile hook of some of the other rhino species. Scientific Name and Origin Ceratotherium simum Ceratotherium from the Greek cerato, meaning horn and thorium, meaning wild beast and simum from the Greek simus, meaning flat nosed. IUCN Red List: Endangered CITES: Appendix I The white rhino, along with the roughly equal-sized Greater one-horned (Indian) rhino, is the largest species of land mammal after the elephant. The white rhino is the least endangered of the living rhino species. Of its two distinct subspecies, the only populations of the Southern...

Sumatran Rhino (Dicerorhinos sumatrensis)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:17:06 GMT

Common Names Sumatran Rhinoceros Hairy Rhinoceros: refers to its long, shaggy hair, in contrast to the other species which appear hairless. Asian Two-Horned Rhinoceros: the only two-horned rhino in the Asian region. Scientific Name and Origin Dicerorhinus sumatrensis Dicerorhinu: from the Greek di, meaning two and ceros, meaning horn and rhinos, meaning nose and sumatrensis referring to Sumatra (with the Latin-ensis, meaning locality) IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered CITES: Appendix I The Sumatran rhino, also called the hairy rhino because of its hairy body and tufted ears, is the most endangered of all rhinoceros species because of its rapid rate of decline. Because of poaching, numbers have decreased more than 50% over the last 15 years. Fewer than 275 Sumatran rhinos survive in very small and highly...

Javan Rhino (Rhinoceros sondaicus)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:15:43 GMT

Common Names Javan rhinoceros Asian lesser one-horned rhinoceros (in contrast to the greater one-horned rhino) because of the Javans smaller size. Scientific Name and Origin Rhinoceros sondaicus Rhinoceros from the Greek rhino, meaning nose and ceros, meaning horn and sondaicus (Latin -icus indicates a locality) referring to the Sunda islands in Indonesia, Sunda meaning Java IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered CITES: Appendix I The Javan Rhino is the rarest of the rhino species with fewer than 60 animals surviving in only two known locations: one in Indonesia (approximately 40-50 animals) and the other in Vietnam (fewer than five individuals). In Indonesia, Javan rhinos live only in Java’s Ujung Kulon National Park, where the population appears to have stabilized, largely because they are physically guarded from harm by...

Greater One-Horned Rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:12:59 GMT

Common Names Greater one-horned rhinoceros: referring to the single large horn Indian and/or Nepalese rhinoceros: referring to the species range Scientific Name and Origin Rhinoceros unicornis Rhinoceros: from the Greek rhino, meaning nose and ceros, meaning horn and unicornis from the Latin uni, meaning one and cornis, meaning horn IUCN Red List: Endangered CITES: Appendix I The greater one-horned rhino is one of the two greatest success stories in rhino conservation (the other one being the southern white rhino in South Africa). With strict protection from Indian and Nepalese wildlife authorities, greater one-horned rhino numbers have recovered from fewer than 200 earlier in the 20th century to around 2,500. However, poaching pressure has remained high and this recovery is precarious without increased and accelerated...

Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:08:28 GMT

Common Names Black rhinoceros. Black rhinos are actually not black at all. The species probably derives its name as a distinction from the white rhino (itself a misnomer) and/or from the dark-colored local soil that often covers its skin after wallowing in mud. Prehensile or hook-lipped rhinoceros. The upper lip of the black rhino is adapted for feeding from trees and shrubs and is its best distinguishing characteristic. Scientific Name and Origin Diceros bicornis Dicero from the Greek di, meaning two and ceros, meaning horn and bicornis from the Latin bi, meaning two and cornis, meaning horn. IUCN Red List: Endangered CITES: Appendix I 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...

Rhinos In Crisis

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:07:12 GMT

Rhinos have existed on Earth for more than 50 million years and have a glorious history. In the past, rhinos were much more diverse and widespread (occurring in North America and Europe as well as in Africa and Asia).

Today, only five species of rhino survive. These five species are further divided into 11 identified subspecies. All rhinos are under threat of, and all but one species is on the verge of, extinction. Without drastic action, some rhinos could be extinct in the wild within the next 10-20 years. Only 17,500 of these marvelous creatures survive in the wild with another 1,200 in captivity. Of these rhinos, more than two thirds are white rhinos. There are only around 6,500 of the other four species combined:

Black rhino 3,725
Greater One-horned rhino 2,619
Sumatran Rhino <275
Javan Rhino <60

Extinct Rhinos

Although only 5 species of rhinoceros precariously survive today, rhinos have a long and distinguished history. Since their origin about 50 million years ago, they have been an extremely diverse group, representing many different ecotypes: Some were like giraffes, some like horses, some like hippos, others like modern rhinos. The extinct rhinos were also more widespread occurring in North America and Europe in addition to Africa and Asia. Moreover, rhinos were not confined to the tropics in the past but extended into temperate and even arctic regions.

Extinct rhinos include:

Paraceratherium, the largest land mammal that ever lived, resembles a very big,muscular giraffe.
Telecoeras, a single horned, hippo-like grazer common in North America.
Woolly Rhino (Coelodonta antiquitatis), probably the most well known of the extinct rhinos.

Rhino Species

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:03:47 GMT

Today there are 5 species and 11 subspecies of rhinos surviving on earth. Two species (Black & White) occur in Africa. Three species (Indian, Javan, and Sumatran) occur in Asia.

Thousands and especially millions of years ago, rhinos were more diverse, widespread and abundant. Rhinos occurred in North America and Europe as well as in Africa and Asia. The surviving rhinos are precious representatives of the glorious heritage and history of the rhino family on our planet.

Partners

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:01:02 GMT

Albuquerque Biological Park/ Rio Grande Zoo Jacksonville Zoo American Association Of Zookeepers’ Bowling For Rhinos Ledder Family Charitable Trust Asian Rhino Project Lion Country Safari Basel Zoo Los Angeles Zoo Lee & Ramona Bass Foundation Marwell Preservation Trust Blue Rhino® Micanopy Zoological Preserve Brookfield Zoo ...

History of IRF

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:00:12 GMT

During the late 1980s, Zimbabwe’s black rhino populations were decreasing at an alarming rate due to intense, organized poaching. In 1989, a group of concerned individuals and institutions founded the Black Rhino Foundation to assist in the conservation of black rhinos in Zimbabwe both through efforts in the wild and in zoos. In part, because of the International Black Rhino Foundation’s support, poaching was virtually eliminated and black rhino populations began to stabilize. In most areas throughout the species’ range, black rhino populations now are increasing.

In 1993, in response to the escalating crisis facing all five rhino species, the International Black Rhino Foundation evolved into the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) and expanded its mission to encompass all five species. The IRF is involved in programs both in nature and in captivity, both of which IRF believes are critical for the survival of rhinos. The IRF focuses on the species most in need of, and most appropriate for, intensive protection and management. IRF focuses its projects where conservation will have its most significant impact, and when possible, is a catalyst and facilitator rather than a primary implementer. Additionally, the IRF provides linkages between captive and wild populations of rhinos, with the ultimate objective of helping captive populations become truly viable and hence an integral part of conservation strategies for rhinos.

The International Rhino Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors who generously contribute time and financial resources to its efforts. IRF maintains a very small staff. IRF’s lean structure allows more than 90% of its funds to go directly to its field programs in Africa and Asia. The IRF Program Office is based at the White Oak Conservation Center (Florida, USA), a research and conservation center for endangered wildlife.

IRF News Room

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:12:35 GMT

IRFs newsroom provides professional media representatives from around the world with comprehensive information about IRF and rhino conservation. If you are not a member of the media, please click here to contact us for general inquiries, or feel free to search our press releases. PRESS RELEASES IRFs press releases provide quick access to key information on IRF activities about projects around the world. RSS FEEDS AND WEB 2.0 Tell us what you want -- sign up to receive our RSS Feeds for Press Releases, our e-newsletter, blog posts and social media connections. IRF MEDIA CONTACTS AND EXPERTS IRF experts are available for comment on a wide array of rhino conservation topics both as a general resource and for media interviews. Please contact Susie Ellis for more information. MEDIA KIT & STORY IDEAS A comprehensive media kit can be download here. It includes fact sheets, history of our organization and media contacts. IRF IMAGE GALLERY ...

Ujung Kulon National Park, Indonesia

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:04:39 GMT

The Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) is one of the rarest species of mammals and one of the most endangered rhinoceros species, with fewer than 60 animals believed to exist in two known populations. Between 40 and 60 individuals inhabit Ujung Kulon National Park in West Java, Indonesia, and between three and five individuals are part of a likely non-viable population in the Cat Loc section of Cat Tien National Park in Vietnam. Because Javan Rhinos inhabit dense tropical forests, they are not easy targets for poachers with guns. But they are vulnerable to poachers who use snares and traps to capture and kill the rhino so its horn can then be removed. The area now known as Ujung Kulon National Park is the only remaining lowland forest site in Java. It received modest protection status in 1910 when it was declared a hunting reserve. In 1921, its status was upgraded into a nature reserve, and in 1980, it was declared as one of the first five national parks in Indonesia. In 1992,...

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, Indonesia

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:04:11 GMT

Bukit Barisan Selatan (BBS) National Park is the third largest protected area (3,568 km2) in Sumatra. The park is the main watershed for southwestern Sumatra, providing water and ecological services to local communities. Its elongated shape makes it difficult to protect, because the ratio of boundary-to-interior is so high. The eastern boundary tends to follow the watershed, while the western boundary is located close to the foot of the mountains, and, in some areas, follows the coastline. A series of protected forest areas were created to form a buffer zone on the eastern side of the Park, but all of these have swallowed up by human encroachment. Bukit Barisan Selatan is one of the highest priority areas for Sumatran megafauna, and in particular, for the Sumatran rhino, the Sumatran tiger, and the Sumatran elephant. It is home to the second largest population of Sumatran rhinos (Dicerorhinos sumatrensis sumatrensis), estimated between 60 and 85 animals. Sumatran rhinos have declined...

Way Kambas National Park, Indonesia

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:03:42 GMT

Facing intense pressure from a variety of threats, the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinos sumatrensis sumatrensis) is probably the most endangered species of rhinoceros. It is estimated that no more than 275 individuals survive, almost entirely in two range states, Indonesia and Malaysia. From 1989 to 1998, the population declined by at least 60%, and while Javan rhinos number even fewer, the combination of the extent and rate of population reduction makes the Sumatran rhino the most critically endangered of the five rhino species. The cause of the decline is almost entirely poaching for the horn through the use of traps and snares placed in the forest. In Indonesia, Sumatran rhinos survive in only three known locations (Gunung Leuser, Bukit Barisan Selatan, and Way Kambas National Park) and have been extirpated from one national park (Kerinci Seblat) within the past decade. Way Kambas is a large national park covering 130,000 hectares in southern Sumatra. The park consists of swamp...

Tanzania

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:02:37 GMT

Tanzania’s spectacular 484,800 km² Selous Game Reserve (SGR) is a World Heritage Site (inscribed in 1982) and the second largest wildlife reserve in the world. It conserves an ecosystem of high biodiversity including one of the world’s largest populations of elephants, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and wild dog. The black rhino population of this reserve once numbered ~3,000 individuals but was reduced to near extinction by a multi-country poaching episode in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Black rhinos were thought to be extinct in the Selous – then in 1990, rhino tracks were detected. Following this discovery, the first priority was to find out how many black rhinos were left, their status, and to monitor them and develop protection. The Selous Rhino Trust, which now undertakes this work, has been very successful so far and has established that viable populations of black rhinos do indeed exist in the Selous. The aims of the Selous Rhino Project, run by the Selous Rhino Trust and in...