With rhino poaching becoming one of the worst tragedies to have hit our wildlife in a very long time, we’re once again at the stage where we can announce new official figures.
The rhino poaching figures as of 21 June 2012
In this year alone, a total of 251 rhinos have been poached in South Africa. These figures were announced in a statement released by the Department of Environmental Affairs on the 20th of June.
The previous report was released on the 12th of June 2012 and stated that 245 rhinos have been poached up until then. This means that in the period of one week, we lost six more of our rhinos.
The regions where the most rhinos are being poached remains the North West, KwaZulu Natal and Limpopo provinces, with 86 of the total rhinos poached this year coming from here. The Kruger National Park on its own has lost 145 rhinos since the beginning of the year – a truly unsettling figure.
Looking at law enforcement, 170 arrests have been made in connection of poaching activity. Of these arrests, 147 were confirmed to be poachers, 10 are receivers or couriers, six are couriers or buyers and seven are exporters.
It is safe to say that the future of our rhinos is still looking dire. Therefore, you can look at these following ways in which you can help:
1. If you become aware of any rhino poaching activity, please call the tip-off line at 0800 205 005.
2. Get involved with rhino conservation organisations. We know it’s difficult to choose one out of the 270+ active organisations, so we made it easier for you.
Christie Fynn’s top 5 rhino charities for 2012
Who do you trust out of 270+ rhino fundraising organisations?
The smallest contribution or form of involvement can truly help the people in the field who are working to try and stop this terrible tragedy.
*Photo courtesy of Jon Morgan
