Isabella Sollazzo
Rhinoceros, rhinos for short, are large megaherbivores that inhabit several parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The genus is split into five species; black, white, great one-horned, Javan, and Sumatran rhinos. Only white rhinos are not considered an endangered species, due only to conservation efforts in the past 50 years. All other species range from critically endangered to vulnerable.
These 2,000-pound animals are vital to their natural ecosystems. Rhinos are herbivores who consume large quantities of vegetation, working as natural lawnmowers and weed killers. Their diets help to maintain a balanced ecosystem and keep competitive plants in line. Without rhino moderation, the biodiversity of plants would tilt and ripple out to affect other herbivore species that rely on plant biodiversity, such as elephants and antelopes, which are also endangered. Beyond these natural contributions, rhinos stimulate local economies and promote sustainable development through tourism by creating job opportunities and tangible benefits to communities living alongside these creatures. Rhinos are one of the top animals tourists hope to see on their African safari adventures, though very few rhinos can prosper outside of conservation lands.
Rhinos are endangered by poachers after the animal’s horn, which drives a high price on the black market. For some, the horns are a mantle piece to show off great wealth, but more commonly, they are used as a source of keratin, the same mineral found in our hair and fingernails. Falsities circle about the healing properties of keratin, claiming an ability to cure hangovers and fevers, promote hair and nail growth, and reclaim aging skin. Though several scientific studies and medical journals have debunked these claims, the rumors continue to circulate, people buy keratin supplements, and rhinos slink closer to extinction. Nearly 90% of rhino poaching took place in South Africa in 2022, though less poaching was estimated compared to the previous year.
Several international organizations are working to protect rhino species including the World Wildlife Fund, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and the International Rhino Fund. These organizations work with policymakers to draft legislation protecting rhinos and other endangered species, partner with tech companies to track the illegal selling of rhino horns on the internet and support rhino rehabilitation efforts through land protection and conservation efforts. We can help these efforts through our own sustainable practices. For those who still choose to use keratin products, make sure the mineral is produced sustainably, such as Replicine™ Functional Keratin and Synthetic horn powder, both of which are chemically identical to keratin from rhino horns but are produced in a laboratory and cause no harm to animals. Companies like Nutree Cosmetics and Vegamour offer 100% vegan keratin treatments that are sourced ethically and responsibly, in line with the company's ethical values. With enough effort, rhinos will soon be a sprawling species inhabiting the vast landscapes of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Citations
World Wildlife Fund. (n.d.). Rhinos. World Wildlife Fund. Retrieved January 9, 2025, from https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/rhino
International Fund for Animal Welfare. (2021, May 6). Rhino poaching: An urgent crisis. International Fund for Animal Welfare. Retrieved January 9, 2025, from https://www.ifaw.org/au/journal/rhino-poaching