Rhinos in Africa

African rhinos, known for their imposing stature and iconic horns, have a storied history in the vast landscapes of Africa. These remarkable herbivores, though occasionally seen in small groups, are primarily solitary creatures, preferring to roam alone through diverse habitats ranging from grasslands to dense forests.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Africa was home to approximately 100,000 rhinos, scattered across the continent. However, as the 20th century progressed, their numbers sharply declined due to relentless poaching and habitat loss. Today, the African rhino population stands at around 27,000 individuals, with most of them seeking refuge within the protected boundaries of national parks and reserves.

Among the African rhino species, the southern white rhino once believed to be extinct, has made a remarkable recovery in safeguarded sanctuaries and is now classified as “near threatened.” Conversely, the western black rhino and northern white rhino have tragically become extinct in the wild. The last two surviving northern white rhinos are under constant protection in Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.

Black rhinos have displayed signs of recovery in recent decades, with their numbers doubling from a low point of fewer than 2,500 individuals. However, their total population remains only a fraction of the estimated 100,000 that thrived in the early part of the 20th century. African rhinos still face grave threats, particularly from poaching for their horns and continued habitat loss and degradation.