International Rhino Foundation

Rhino Poaching Update: 2024 Statistics Released ?? South Africa lost 420 rhinos to poaching in 2024. While this is a slight decrease from the 499 rhinos killed in 2023, the crisis is far from over. ?? KwaZulu-Natal remains the hardest hit, with 232 rhinos poached—but this is a significant drop from 325 in 2023, thanks to large-scale dehorning operations. ?? Kruger National Park saw an alarming rise in poaching, with 88 rhinos killed in 2024, a 13% increase from 2023. December was particularly devastating, with 21 rhinos poached in just one month. ?? The crisis continues into 2025, with 17 more rhinos lost in Kruger National Park in January. While progress has been made, these numbers show poachers are adapting. More protection, resources and support are needed to safeguard Africa’s rhinos. Images courtesy of Bhejane Photography? #RhinoConservation #TeamRhino #wildlifepoaching

Rhino conservation isn’t just about saving a species—it’s about investing in a future where both people and nature thrive. ???? For #WorldWildlifeDay 2025, we’re highlighting the power of Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet. At IRF, we believe that protecting rhinos means supporting local communities and securing ecosystems that benefit us all. By partnering with local communities, we create opportunities to support livelihoods, build awareness and strengthen anti-poaching efforts. #WorldWildlifeDay #WWD2025 #WildlifeConservationFinance #TeamRhino #KeeptheFiveAlive #rhino #conservation #wildlife #endangeredspecies ?? @marcuswestbergphotography

The Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) and the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) are joining forces to launch the first-ever Rising Wildlife Leaders—Careers cohort dedicated entirely to rhino conservation practitioners! This transformative program empowers local conservationists by providing the skills, networks, and opportunities necessary for long-term career success. Selected participants receive up to three years of tailored support, including individualized capacity building, professional mentorship, peer learning, and career guidance. With all five species of rhinos currently under threat from poaching, habitat degradation, and other factors, it is critical now more than ever to bolster the ability of rhino conservationists to succeed. By investing in the next generation of rhino conservation leaders, we are strengthening local expertise, fostering long-term careers in conservation, and securing a sustainable future where rhinos thrive in the wild. We’re excited to introduce you to the rhino cohort soon!

More Justice for Javan Rhinos In a landmark ruling, six individuals involved in the shocking poaching of Javan rhinos have been sentenced to up to 12 years in prison—the strongest penalties ever imposed for a wildlife crime in Indonesia. This verdict delivers a clear message: poaching will not be tolerated. The International Rhino Foundation commends the thorough investigation and the dedication of the Indonesian government, law enforcement, conservation groups, and local communities in bringing these criminals to justice. While we cannot undo the loss of up to 26 Javan rhinos, this ruling is a critical step toward stronger protections and a safer future for this rare species. Javan rhinos have come back from the brink before, and with unwavering commitment, they will recover again. Stronger safeguards and continued conservation efforts are essential to ensuring this never happens again. Read the full update here: https://buff.ly/41cW2tL Image courtesy of Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry #JusticeForJavanRhinos #RhinoConservation #TeamRhino

?? We Can Bring Rhinos Back! ??? Once on the brink of extinction, the greater one-horned rhino is proof that conservation works—but our work isn’t done. The recovery of the greater one-horned rhino is a conservation success story – but the story isn’t over yet. Through strategic conservation efforts, science-based action and unwavering commitment, we can bring all five rhino species back! #ReverseTheRedDay unites conservationists, governments and communities to ensure species not only survive but thrive and reverse biodiversity loss. #RhinoConservation #TeamRhino

A Legacy of Hope: Siabuwa’s Lasting Impact ?? In the 1990s, Siabuwa, a young black rhino, was relocated to escape the poaching crisis in Zimbabwe. Her survival wasn’t just a victory—it was the beginning of a legacy. Against all odds, Siabuwa went on to have 10 calves, who themselves have produced 31 offspring. Every rhino matters. Every rhino birth is a victory. Together, we can shape the future of rhino conservation. ???? Check out Siabuwa's full story here: https://buff.ly/4aKCm3x #EveryRhinoCounts #TeamRhino

?? Reviving the grassland ecosystem is crucial to protect biodiversity and ensure people's well being. In Manas World Heritage Site, we engaged with local communities to address the issue of invasive alien plants by manually uprooting them to restore the grasslands. Post IAP removal, the native grasses are coming back gradually, and so do the grassland-obligate species! International Rhino Foundation

?? Moving 2,000 kg Giants to Save Them? Sometimes, protecting rhinos means moving them to new homes where they can thrive—a massive effort called translocation. From ensuring the right habitat to preserving genetic diversity and fighting poaching, rhino conservation is no easy task. But there’s hope—Africa’s rhino population is growing, thanks to these efforts! ?? Dive into our latest blog, written by our partners at the African Rhino Specialist Group: https://buff.ly/3BXHULf Photo Courtesy of Professor Leith Myer, Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research at the University of Pretoria #RhinoConservation #TeamRhino

We're charging into 2025! ???? As we kick off the new year, we want to THANK YOU for making the end of 2024 unforgettable. Your generosity during our end-of-year campaign has set the stage for an incredible year of rhino conservation! Because of your support, we’re starting 2025 with hope, determination and the resources to: ?? Protect and restore critical rhino habitats ?? Empower ranger teams on the front lines ?? Strengthen partnerships with local communities ?? Raise global awareness to ensure a future for rhinos This year, let’s keep the momentum going and work together to achieve even more wins for rhinos and wildlife. Every rhino born, every habitat restored and every poaching attempt stopped is a step toward shaping a brighter future—for rhinos, humans and the planet. Here’s to a 2025 full of action, progress and victories for rhinos! ?? #ThankYou #RhinoConservation #HopeForRhinos #TeamRhino #2025Goals

?? Join Our Mission to Save Rhinos! ?? Are you a visionary communicator passionate about wildlife conservation? The International Rhino Foundation is hiring a Communications Director to lead innovative strategies, amplify our impact and inspire action for rhino conservation. Full job description available here: https://lnkd.in/gBFWcDgv