World Rhinoceros Day Sep. 22, 2023

Keep the five alive! That is the mission of World Rhinoceros Day, the International Rhino Foundation, rhino specialists, and fans around the globe. Those five species are the Javan, Sumatran, greater one-horned, black, and white rhinoceros; the latter can be seen here today and identified by its two horns and square lip. The global rhino population is estimated to be under 27,000—less than the average capacity at a Major League Baseball stadium. While there have been successful conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of these amazing animals will likely be a perpetual challenge. Habitat loss is a common issue for many animals globally, but rhinos are particularly targeted by poachers. Parks like the Shamwari Game Reserve, the site of our photo, employ anti-poaching squads to keep these rhinos safe.