Javan Rhino
Projects
© WWF Greater Mekong
On the Trail of Rhinos
Learn how dogs are helping scientists determine the number of remaining Javan rhinos
WWF's Asian Rhino and Elephant Action Strategy (AREAS) grew out of the recognition that conservation success for these endangered large mammal species and their habitats will only be possible through a landscape-based approach that goes beyond isolated protected areas and addresses issues of land-use practices in the surrounding areas. WWF’s work with Javan rhinos is a part of this ambitious plan.
Javan rhino projects include increasing anti-poaching patrols protecting habitat, translocating rhinos establish new ones, and collecting population data to improve management strategies for rhinos.
A natural haven
Ujung Kulon National Park contains a unique remnant of lowland Javan rainforest separated from inhabited areas by a volcano and narrow isthmus. WWF first began supporting conservation work in Ujung Kulon in 1964, by providing equipment to Indonesian park authorities and funding scientific research. In 1967, an estimated 21-28 Javan rhinos lived in Ujung Kulon, but anti-poaching patrols and habitat protection allowed the population to grow to 45-54 animals by 1976.
Anti-poaching patrols, supported by WWF, the International Rhino Foundation and other conservation partners, have helped Ujung Kulon's rhino population recover and these patrols continue to safeguard them today. Anti-poaching patrols enforce other wildlife laws as well, protecting many bird species from trapping and the park's coral reefs from dynamite fishing.
A stable population
Since the mid-70s, the rhino population appears to have stabilized within the park, with most recent data indicating a population between 40 and 60 today. This is likely the only viable population of Javan rhinos in the world. The only other home for this once widespread species is in Vietnam, where less than 8 individuals still survive.
Preliminary studies show that Ujung Kulon National Park has the capacity to support perhaps 80-100 Javan rhinos.
Conservation science
WWF is also using fecal DNA analysis and camera traps to gain a better understanding of the rhino's current population structure. WWF will also continue to assess habitat and rhino food availability in Ujung Kulon, as well as the feasibility of translocating rhinos to establish a new population elsewhere, once a suitable and secure site for a new population is identified.
-
Take Action
Take action through WWF's Conservation Action Network, where you can speak out for wildlife and wild places around the globe.
-
Adopt a Rhino
Make a symbolic rhino adoption to help save some of the world's most endangered animals from extinction and support WWF's conservation efforts.
