What is one of the major threats identified in the International Rhino Foundation's 2023 report on the state of rhinos?

Solution

Recently, the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) published the report, State of the Rhino, 2023 which documents current population estimates and trends for the five surviving rhino species in Africa and Asia. Every year, World Rhino Day is observed on 22th September to spread awareness for all five species of rhino and work being done to save them.  It was first announced by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) - South Africa in 2010. Key Findings of the Report: Major Threats: Poaching, Habitat Loss: Poaching still threatens all five rhino species and has increased in several regions that had not previously been targeted. South Africa continues to battle devastating poaching losses of its white rhinos. Black rhino populations are increasing despite constant poaching pressure. Climate Change: In Africa, climate change-induced drought is causing myriad detrimental impacts.  In Asia dramatically increased precipitation and longer monsoon periods could cause more direct deaths of rhinos and humans alike. Changing weather conditions and landscapes can also trigger an increase in invasive plant species, crowding out or overtaking native rhino food plants and causing general habitat degradation. Status of Rhino: Javan Rhinos:The status and whereabouts of 12 of the approximately 76 remaining Javan rhinos is unknown.  Sumatran Rhinos: Signs of Sumatran rhinos are increasingly hard to find, creating more uncertainty about their population in the wild. White Rhinos: 2,000 white rhinos from “World’s Largest Rhino Farm” will now be rewilded throughout Africa. Bright Spots: Greater one-horned rhinos in India and Nepal continue to thrive due to strong protection . Black rhinos in Africa are rebounding in the past few decades at a strong growth rate despite still significant poaching losses. With the right interventions, all five rhino species can rebound and thrive in our ever changing world. Learn Along: About International Rhino Foundation Founded: 1989                     Headquarters: Texas, United States                 Founder: Lee Bass