Poachers Kill Them By The Hundreds, But Here Are 6 Ways Groups Are Trying To Save Rhinos

by N/A, 9 years ago | 1 min read

Here's what you need to know about existing initiatives that were created to save the rhinos.Â

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1. They use hidden cameras.

A group of British researchers is suggesting that they begin using hidden cameras that are embedded in the horns of rhinos. The cameras would work as GPS devices and heart rate monitors that could let them know if a rhino was injured or killed by a poacher.Â

2. They make synthetic horns.

In South Africa, poaching is at an all time high. 393 animals were killed in the first four months of the year. A bioengineering startup called Pembient claims that they can make a synthetic rhino horn that's genetically identical to the real thing. This way, they can sell the synthetic versions to people who are using it in traditional medicines and reduce poaching.

3. They fly them around in search of mates.

The Cincinnati Zoo has flown certain subspecies of rhinos to other parts of the world when they have no eligible mates in the area.Â

4. They're placed under armed guard.

The last male white rhino in Kenya is placed under a 24 hour armed guard.

5. They're being tracked with drones.

The Lindbergh Foundation created a drone program that's designed to deter poachers. The pilots fly remote drones with night vision cameras and worn rangers on the ground of any nearby poachers.Â

6. They're being airlifted to safer regions.

Rhinos without Borders is a crowdfunded initiative that takes rhinos out of South Africa and moves them to Botswana where poaching is far less prevalent. This costs about $45,000 per rhino. The organization has moved 10 and plans to move 100 rhinos.