In a significant boost to wildlife conservation efforts, a Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Indonesia’s Way Kambas National Park has witnessed the birth of another Sumatran rhinoceros. This event marks the second successful birth of this critically endangered species at the sanctuary this year, highlighting a ray of hope for their survival. The newborn male calf, born last Saturday, is a significant addition to the Sumatran Rhino population, which is perilously close to extinction.
Weighing about 25 kilograms (55.12 pounds) at birth, the calf’s mother, Delilah, is also a resident of the park, born there in 2016. This birth is a testament to Indonesia’s dedication and efforts in the conservation of the Sumatran rhino, a species that has been under severe threat due to habitat loss and poaching. Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya has underscored the birth as a reaffirmation of the country’s commitment to preserving this unique species.
This latest birth was a result of natural mating, as reported by the Rhino Foundation of Indonesia, which is a significant aspect of the conservation strategy. It brings the total population of Sumatran rhinos in the sanctuary to ten, an encouraging figure given the critically endangered status of the species. A 2019 government assessment revealed that there are fewer than 80 Sumatran rhinos left in the world, all in Indonesia, making every birth crucial for the species’ survival.
The Sumatran rhino, characterized as the smallest and hairiest of its kind, is the only Asian rhino with two horns. It can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall, weighing between 500 kg (1,102 lb) and 960 kg (2,116 lb). The birth of the male calf follows the arrival of a 27-kilogram female calf last month, demonstrating the sanctuary’s success in creating a conducive environment for the breeding of these rare animals.
The conservation of the Sumatran rhino is vital, not just for the species itself but also for the ecosystem they inhabit. These births represent a significant achievement in the global efforts to protect and increase the numbers of one of the world’s most endangered mammals. The successful breeding program at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary offers a glimmer of hope and a model for conservation efforts worldwide, emphasizing the importance of protecting these majestic creatures for future generations.
READ MORE: