Javan Rhinoceros
Threats
Only two small populations of Javan rhino remain. This makes the species extremely vulnerable to extinction due to natural catastrophes, diseases, poaching, political disturbances, and genetic drift. The biology of the species is poorly understood, with techniques for accurately estimating their numbers not fully developed.
Reduced genetic diversity
The small size of Javan rhino populations, especially that in Cat Tien National Park where no more than 8 remain, is in itself a cause for concern. Low genetic diversity in these populations could lower their ability to survive natural disasters or diseases. As a result, natural catastrophes such as volcano eruptions or earthquakes, diseases, and genetic drift remain the main threats to the species.
Habitat loss and degradation
Are rhinos in danger of extinction?
More than 90 percent of the world's rhinos have disappeared since 1970. Today the total worldwide population of rhinos numbers less than 16,000. Few rhinos are left outside of national parks and other protected areas.
Another threat to the Javan rhino is the increased demand for land caused by rising human populations. Clearance of forests for agriculture and commercial logging are occurring in and around the two protected areas where these animals occur.
Studies on habitat improvement to increase the rhinos' natural food supply are underway. In the coming years, WWF and its partners will look at the possibility of translocating rhinos from Ujung Kulon National Park in Indonesia to establish a new population in other suitable habitat, security permitting.
Wildlife trade
Rampant poaching, facilitated by the growing number of roads and logging trails, poses a grave threat to the Javan rhino and other species. Tigers are hunted for their skins, teeth and for use in traditional medicines. Rhinos are killed for their horns, which are also used in traditional Chinese medicine. Orangutans and other primates are stolen from the wild for the entertainment and tourism trade. Baby orangutans are popular pets and their mothers are often shot during their capture.
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