Building a Bright Future for Javan Rhinos

S. Ellis, Executive Director, International Rhino Foundation

Virginia, USA

s.ellis@rhinos-irf.org

Javan rhinos may be the most threatened large mammal on the planet - in peril from forest loss, habitat conversion, and from human settlements encroaching on their habitats. Nevertheless, the species is in better shape because of the partnership between AAZK’s Bowling with the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), which has supported Rhino Protection Units (RPUs) in Ujung Kulon National Park for almost 10 years. Thanks to this protection, not a single Javan rhino has been poached in Ujung Kulon in the past 5 years and the population has stabilized at about 50 animals. Although Ujung Kulon is protected, it is surrounded by areas heavily used by humans and it is not clear whether the Park can accommodate any more rhinos. Along with ongoing protection, it is essential that a second population be established as soon as possible through translocations and reintroductions to secure habitats within the historic range of the species (i.e., the islands of Java and Sumatra). Establishing a second population is critical because having all Javan rhinos in one population puts them at risk of extinction from disease or other catastrophic events like volcanic eruptions and tsunami. Along with partners, IRF will identify a suitable, secure second site and begin the steps towards translocation over the next several years. This paper provides an update on the current situation facing this Critically Endangered species and outlines its most urgent conservation needs – requiring all our support to prevent its extinction.