Rhino Poaching Surges 229 Killed in 2024 Amid Legal Trade Debate

Govind Tekale

Poaching continues to devastate rhino populations, with 229 rhinos killed in South Africa during first half of 2024 despite strict protection measures.

Photo Source: Tumwinekenneth (CC0 1.0)

Wildlife experts propose legalizing rhino horn trade to combat black market demand on international trafficking networks.

Photo Source: AfricanConservation (CC BY-SA 4.0)

From half a million rhinos in 1900, only 27,000 remain across five species globally - highlighting critical endangerment.

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Illegal rhino horn trade connects to organized crime networks, with evidence of trafficking routes through Northeast India.

Photo Source: Bernard Spragg (CC BY 2.0)

Martin Wikelski advocates controlled horn removal and regrowth for sustainable trade, using profits for rhino protection.

Photo Source: Ted McDonnell (Pexels)

Recent policy discussions on rhino horn use in traditional medicine spark debates about conservation impacts.

Photo Source: Joan Costa (Pexels)

Conservation experts warn legal trade could complicate enforcement and create money laundering opportunities.

Photo Source: Adam York (Pexels)

Private rhino sanctuary owners face mounting challenges from increased security costs and personal safety threats.

Photo Source: Jobert Enamno (Pexels)

Javan and Sumatran rhinos face near extinction with populations below 70 and 47 respectively in Indonesia.

Photo Source: Nishant Vyas (Pexels)

Wildlife Justice Commission calls for coordinated international response to tackle sophisticated trafficking networks.

Photo Source: Adam York (Pexels)