The Black rhino is a species of African rhinoceros, along with the White rhino. Both of these rhinos are actually brownish-grey in colour so it is assumed that they got their names for some other reason although exactly what is unclear.

There are four subspecies of the Black rhino which include the South-central of Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mozambique; the South-western living in Namibia, Angola, Botswana, and South Africa; the East African inhabiting primarily Tanzania; and the West African which some authorities state is now extinct in the wild.

In 2006, none could be found in the wild and it is believed that only eight now exist in the world and all of those in captivity. In 2002 only 10 were counted in its native habitat so it is extremely likely that they are, indeed, extinct.

The Black rhinoceros species achieved Critically Endangered status in 2001.

The Biggest Threat to the Black Rhino: Man

Although the Black rhino is facing increasing loss of habitat much as other endangered species around the world, the greatest threat to its existence is actually poaching.

Because of political instability and civil unrest in West Africa, there is little to no enforcement of the laws against killing this Critically Endangered animal.

Poaching of rhinos occurs because of the value of their horns. Although the rhino’s horns are made of keratin – the same substance in human finger- and toenails – it is believed by some that the horns possess some special characteristic that gives them curative properties.

Traditional Chinese medical practitioners have long used powdered rhino horns as an ingredient in potions for treating high fever. They are also sought after for carving and use as decorative objects.

What is Being Done?

One way that international wildlife conservation groups have attempted to stop the illegal killing of the Black rhino is by destroying the existing inventory of rhino horns.

Poached horns are often slipped into the stockpile so the theory is that by getting rid of all remaining inventory, new and illegal products can be easily identified. Unfortunately, this measure has been defeated as of this writing.

The good news is that the three subspecies of Black rhino still surviving are actually increasing in number. This is largely due to protection of their environment and breeding in captivity then reintroducing the young to existing populations. Still, overall numbers are greatly decreased from previous decades.

The danger of extinction is still real and it is vital that efforts to stop poaching the Black rhino are instituted and strictly enforced.

Take a look at our guide to the various types of rhinos and the Black Rhino Conservation Programmes.