While poaching of African rhinos has decreased since 2021, other threats like drought and policy shifts are threatening their future survival, said a recent report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and TRAFFIC. The comprehensive report, “African and Asian Rhinoceroses – Status, Conservation and Trade,” assesses current rhino population trends ahead of the upcoming CITES COP20 conference.
African Rhino Populations: Mixed Trends Amidst Challenges
By the end of 2024, Africa’s rhino population stood at approximately 22,540 individuals, including 6,788 black rhinos (Critically Endangered) and 15,752 white rhinos (Near Threatened). Black rhinos increased by 5.2% compared to 2023, reflecting some conservation success. However, white rhino numbers dropped by 11.2%, highlighting ongoing challenges.
Poaching rates fell to 2.15% in 2024—the lowest since 2011—offering hope for population recovery. Nonetheless, early 2025 saw a spike in poaching incidents in several countries. For example, Chad lost two black rhino cows, leaving only two males in the wild. South Africa reported over 90 rhino poaching cases, including 52 in Kruger National Park alone. Both Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Parks continue anti-poaching patrols and dehorning efforts to protect rhinos.
Asian Rhino Numbers Show Slight Increase, But Threats Remain
In Asia, the total rhino population in India, Nepal, and Indonesia rose marginally to between 4,159 and 4,172 by early 2025, up 0.3% from 2022. This gain was mainly driven by the growing population of the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) in India and Nepal, which reached 4,075 individuals.
However, Javan and Sumatran rhinos remain critically endangered, with populations severely diminished. The Javan rhino suffered a devastating loss of 26 individuals to poaching between 2019 and 2023—about one-third of its population. Current estimates place Javan rhinos at just 50 and Sumatran rhinos between 34 and 47. These declines underscore the urgent need for stronger enforcement and recovery efforts in Indonesia.
Conservation Successes and Ongoing Risks
Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General, emphasized that while rhino conservation demonstrates that positive change is possible, ongoing threats demand sustained investment and political will. “Intelligence-led enforcement, community engagement, and secure habitats are key to reversing declines,” she said, stressing the importance of global cooperation to disrupt wildlife trafficking.
Dr. Dave Balfour, Chair of the IUCN African Rhino Specialist Group, noted that the recent drop in white rhino numbers highlights the fragility of conservation gains. “Lasting success depends on integrated management approaches that empower local communities and foster collaborative governance,” he explained.
Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Chair of the Asian Rhino Specialist Group, called for urgent recovery plans in Indonesia, pointing out that the loss of Javan rhinos and the uncertain status of Sumatran rhinos pose critical risks to these species’ survival.
The Impact of Illegal Trade and Data Gaps
Despite fewer horns entering illegal markets, rhino horn trade remains a major concern. South Africa, home to the largest African rhino populations, remains the country most affected by illegal rhino horn trafficking. Malaysia and Vietnam are key destinations for smuggled horns, indicating that law enforcement efforts should target these countries to dismantle criminal networks.
The report also highlights significant gaps in horn stockpile data and inconsistent reporting on thefts, limiting transparency and complicating enforcement. These challenges make it difficult to fully assess the scale of illegal trade and the effectiveness of anti-poaching measures.
Looking Ahead: Protecting Rhinos Requires Global Commitment
Conservation efforts integrating law enforcement, community participation, and habitat protection have stabilized or increased many rhino populations in parts of Asia and Africa. However, mixed population trends emphasize that without enhanced enforcement, improved trade oversight, and sustained funding, the future of several rhino species remains uncertain.
The ongoing drought, policy changes, and poaching surges underscore the urgent need for coordinated international action to secure the survival of both African and Asian rhinoceroses.
