Rhinos are being continuously poached for their horns. In fact, 373 rhinos have been killed in South Africa this year alone; 1,372 in total since 2007. With numbers like this the rhino will soon be gone if actions aren’t taken to stop the slaughter. 
 
Rhino horn is used for medicinal purposes in places like Vietnam and China. The horn is ground down to a fine powder and mixed with water. Taken orally this potion is thought to cure such ailments as fevers, rheumatism, gout, snakebites, hallucinations and even "devil possession". However, scientific studies show there is no connection between the rhino horn and healthy living.
 
Did You Know...?

• Rhino horn is made up mostly of keratin
•  A female rhino gives birth only once every three years
• Rhinos can’t see very well, but have excellent hearing.
• A group of rhinos is called a "crash."
  
  

Photograph by Mandi Cramer

What can you do to help?

• Recognise the plight and educate people on rhinos
• Do not support any cause that still participates in the illegal trade of rhino horns
• Join National Rhino Day on Facebook
• Raise money to support the cause
• Visit game reserves and parks – fun and educational!

Remember September 22nd is World Rhino Day. Together we can make a difference!
 
Read more on how traditional healers help fight poaching.