World Rhino Day is celebrated each year on the 22nd of September. Dedicating a day to the majestic rhinoceros aims to celebrate the species and spread awareness about rhino conservation. Sadly, poaching of rhinos for rhino horn is still a huge threat, and the poachers have become increasingly better equipped.

Since 2011, World Rhino Day has been celebrated internationally by rhino experts and advocates around the world! On World Rhino Day, the International Rhino Foundation celebrates the five species of rhinos and all those who care about them.

Why are rhinos so important?

It’s not just because they’re a precious link to our planet’s ancient past; rhinos also play a crucial role in their environment.

White rhinos are big grazers, eating lots of vegetation, which helps shape the African landscape. Other animals benefit, and it keeps a healthy balance within the environment.

Local people depend on the natural resources from these environments for food, fuel and income too. Ecotourism can be a vital sustainable source of funds for local communities. As one of Africa’s wildlife ‘big five’, rhinos are a popular sight for tourists.

By helping protect the rhino we’re helping protect its environment for the benefit of both people and wildlife for generations to come.

How you can help

Of the five species, two are the most threatened. It’s estimated that there are fewer than 50 Sumatran rhinos and less than 80 Javan rhinos left in the wild which makes them both critically endangered. It’s easy to support World Rhino Day and you don’t even have to donate!

Staying up to date on current rhino trends and spreading the word online are powerful tools and incredibly effective.  Of course, you can support charities that work with rhinos too, such as the International Rhino Foundation, but it’s good to know that you can make a difference from the comfort of your own home.

Did you know...?

• There are five species of rhino in the world with black rhinos listed as critically endangered – there are less than 200 left which makes them truly under threat of extinction in the wild.  The white rhino is classified as 'near threatened’  with 15,942 individuals
• Most wild African rhinos are now found in just four countries: South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya.
• Rhinos can weigh over three tonnes which is impressive considering they mainly eat grass and leaves!
• Females tend to be more sociable than the more solitary, territorial males. Together, a group of rhinos is called a ‘crash’. 
• Rhino horn is made up of keratin - the same protein which forms the basis of our hair and nails. 
• Rhino horns grow continuously during their lifetime – the white rhino's horn can grow 7cm every year – and the record length is 150cm long!