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Rhino Resource Center

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 22:02:11 GMT

The Rhino Resource Center is the world’s best source of information about rhino conservation, research, veterinary medicine, and husbandry worldwide. The Rhino Resource Center collects all known publications and maintains archives on all published work on rhinoceros. Search the Rhino Resource Center for everything you ever wanted to know about rhinos - information, photos, and links to other rhino websites!

Rhino Resource Center Newsletters:

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 02:07:27 GMT

Rare Rhino Pregnancy Gives Hope to Species Andalas-Ratu love story proves conservation efforts can work Get updates on Ratu's pregnancy here. Ratu Conservationists across the world are celebrating a pregnancy in one of the world’s most endangered species, the Sumatran rhino. The pregnancy of female Ratu, born in Indonesia, and male Andalas, the first of only three Sumatran rhinos born in captivity in more than 112 years, is giving hope to international rhino biologists. The breeding occurred at Indonesia’s Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Way Kambas National Park after international efforts led to the pair’s introduction. The calf is expected to be born in May 2011. This is no ordinary pregnancy. Andalas and Ratu were brought together through international goodwill and cooperation in an effort to save this critically endangered species. Ratu wandered into a village just outside Sumatra’s Way Kambas National Park in 2006; Andalas was born at...

Ratu's Pregnancy Updates

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:39:32 GMT

Conservationists across the world are celebrating a pregnancy in one of the world’s most endangered species, the Sumatran rhino. The pregnancy of female Ratu, born in Indonesia, and male Andalas, the first of only three Sumatran rhinos born in captivity in more than 112 years, is giving hope to international rhino biologists. The breeding occurred at Indonesia’s Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Way Kambas National Park after international efforts led to the pair’s introduction. The calf is expected to be born in May 2011.

February 17, 2010

First Ultrasound pictures!

SRS ultrasound on February 16, 2010

2009 Donors

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 20:02:51 GMT

We are honored to acknowledge the individuals, foundations, zoos, businesses and others who are helping to save endangered rhinos around the world by donating to IRF’s work. Defenders ($25,000 +) American Association of Zookeepers - Bowling for Rhinos Asian Rhino Project Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund Disney Worldwide Services Gilman International Conservation Foundation Peter Hall – Hunter Hall International Limited Houston Zoo JDD Holdings LLC Lee & Ramona Bass Foundation Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund SAVE Foundation Save the Rhino International Taronga Conservation Society Australia U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Zoo Basel Protectors ($10,000 - $24,999) Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens Diane A. Ledder Charitable Trust Fossil Rim Wildlife Center Drs. Stephen & Denise McDonough Natural Encounters Conservation Fund SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund Tapeats Fund The Ramona F. Bass Foundation World Wildlife...

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 20:35:28 GMT

Flowers wilt, and that box of chocolates just could go straight to your hips! So do something different for your nearest and dearest this Valentine’s Day – “adopt” a Sumatran rhino for your loved ones, and give a gift that will last for years to come.

The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary, a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild.

With a donation of only $30, you can feed and care for a rhino for 2 days; a $60 donation will pay for 4 days. Your donation also ensures veterinary care and upkeep of your rhino’s habitat, and might even help to result in the birth of a new rhino baby!

In honor of your adoption, your sweetheart will receive an adoption certificate and a photo and bio of his or her rhino, as well as regular updates on the rhino and IRF’s work to protect and conserve rhinos worldwide.

So spread the love this Valentine’s Day, and help to protect the critically endangered Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary. Learn more about the rhinos available for adoption and adopt a rhino for a friend or loved one today!

(Please submit your adoption request by February 8 to ensure that you’ll receive the adoption package by Valentine’s Day.)

IRF Wish Lists

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:43:36 GMT

It’s that time of year again, and our rhino monitors, patrol units, vets and keepers have been working on their wish lists!

Our brave and passionate staff around the world work under unbelievably difficult conditions to protect endangered rhinos and their habitats. You can help them safeguard rhinos and other wildlife by “purchasing” one of the much needed items on our wish list – and you’ll make the holidays a lot brighter for rhinos and the people working to protect them.

Birth Announcements

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 15:41:34 GMT

January 2010 Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary had a third white rhino bull calf born on the evening of January 2, 2010. Mother Kori and calf are doing well. December 2009 BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is pleased to announce the first rhino birth at the Zoo. Gemstone, a 21-year-old black rhino, gave birth to a calf late yesterday evening or early this morning. This important birth is the only black rhino born in North America and one of only 3 black rhino births in the past 12 months, worldwide. According to Sam Winslow, assistant director and general curator, mother and calf are doing well and will remain off exhibit while they bond. Gemstone is from the San Francisco Zoo and came to Baton Rouge in 2006. Her gestation period was16½ months. The Zoo’s male rhino, Tatu, came to Baton Rouge in 2003 from Texas. The Zoo has not named the baby rhino, but has determined that it is female. October 2009 Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda announce the birth of their second calf...

Houston Zoo Lecture Media Kit

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:19:20 GMT

Download IRF Media Kit includes: IRF Executive Director, Susi Ellis' biography IRF Fact Sheet Rhino Fact Sheet covering all 5 species IRF Information Brochure Press Release - December 22, 2009 Photo Gallery: Click on the photos below to open a larger, higher resolution version.

Asian Rhino Specialist Group, IUCN Species Survival Commission

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 16:27:41 GMT

African and Asian rhinoceroses - Status, conservation and trade A recent report by the IUCN Species Survival Commission, African and Asian Rhino Specialist Groups and TRAFFIC warns that since 2006 there has been alarming increase in poaching and the illegal trade of rhino horn. Black, white and greater one-horned rhinos have shown population increases since 2006 but in Africa alone a minimum of 470 rhinos have been poached since January 2006. To read the full report click here. The Asian Rhino Specialist Group was formed within the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) at its Bangkok meeting in 1979. Professor Ruedi Schenkel was the first AsRSG chair. He advocated strongly for preparation of Asian Rhino Conservation Plan for range countries. Since 1982, numerous meetings of the AsRSG have been held. The Asian Rhino Action Plan was published in 1989, edited by then-AsRSG chair Mohd Khan bin Momin Khan....

African Rhino Specialist Group, IUCN Species Survivial Commission

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 16:27:17 GMT

African and Asian rhinoceroses - Status, conservation and trade A recent report by the IUCN Species Survival Commission, African and Asian Rhino Specialist Groups and TRAFFIC warns that since 2006 there has been alarming increase in poaching and the illegal trade of rhino horn. Black, white and greater one-horned rhinos have shown population increases since 2006 but in Africa alone a minimum of 470 rhinos have been poached since January 2006. To read the full report click here. The African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG), like its counterpart in the Asian Rhino Specialist Group (AsRSG) is among the 100+ Specialist Groups in the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of IUCN - The World Conservation Union. Its mission is to promote the development and long term maintenance of viable populations of the various sub-species of African rhinos in the wild. Its membership consists of official country representatives from the main range states and a number of specialist members covering a...

Zimbabwe Photo Essay 2009

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 02:57:28 GMT

About 80 percent of Zimbabwe’s black rhinos and half of its white rhinos live within its Lowveld conservancies – low elevation wooded savannahs in the southeast of the country. These large tracts of land, converted from cattle ranches to wildlife management areas, were created to safeguard these highly threatened species. Zimbabwe is now the epicenter of a 15-year high in African rhino poaching.

The IRF-supported Lowveld Rhino Trust track and monitors rhino populations to ensure their safety. Because poaching has reached crisis levels, they also proactively translocate rhinos from high-risk areas to safer locations, treat rhinos with gunshot or snare injuries and return them to the wild, and work with local communities and authorities to proactively prevent and apprehend poachers. Poachers usually target adults. Rhino calves, still nursing and too young to survive on their own, are often left behind with life-threatening injuries and are rescued and bottle-reared until they are old enough to be released back into the wild.

Our efforts to safeguard Zimbabwe’s rhinos work because of the brave and dedicated teamwork of the staff on the ground. Each person in our committed Zimbabwe team, from the rangers to the monitors to the vets and pilots, plays a critical role. We hope you enjoy this collection of images that portrays some of their heroic efforts and the Lowveld’s majestic scenery.

IRF's Holiday Wish List

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 21:03:07 GMT

It’s that time of year again, and our rhino monitors, patrol units, vets and keepers have been working on their holiday wish lists! Our brave and passionate staff around the world work under unbelievably difficult conditions to protect endangered rhinos and their habitats. You can help them safeguard rhinos and other wildlife by “purchasing” one of the much needed items on our wish list – and you’ll make the holidays a lot brighter for rhinos and the people working to protect them. Plus, you can cross someone else off your shopping list by purchasing a wish list item as a gift for a friend or relative – just fill in your gift recipient’s name and address on the donation form and we’ll send them a holiday letter explaining your gift. It's Easy to Give It’s easy to give -- choose the item below you’d like to purchase, click on the donate button, and then just list the name of your item in the “notes” section of...

Sumatran Rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis)

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:58:31 GMT

Common Names Sumatran Rhinoceros Hairy Rhinoceros: refers to its long, shaggy hair, in contrast to the other species which appear hairless. Asian Two-Horned Rhinoceros: the only two-horned rhino in the Asian region. Scientific Name and Origin Dicerorhinus sumatrensis Dicerorhinu: from the Greek di, meaning two and “ceros”, meaning horn and “rhinos”, meaning nose and “sumatrensis” referring to Sumatra (with the Latin-ensis, meaning locality) IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered CITES: Appendix I The Sumatran rhino, also called the “hairy rhino” because of its hairy body and tufted ears, is the most endangered of all rhinoceros species because of its rapid rate of decline. Because of poaching, numbers have decreased more than 50% over the...

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:30:29 GMT

Looking for that perfect holiday gift for the family (or group of friends, or corporate team) that wants to help save rhinos? How about a 4-day, 3-night safari to see (and protect) some of the world’s most endangered species? And, you don’t even need to dust off your passport! For the second year, IRF is pleased to offer this truly unique opportunity, usually reserved for the world’s foremost scientists, global and corporate leaders, and select members of the White Oak Conservation Center Foundation. And, it’s all yours… for the winning bid. Just go to www.rhinosirf.cmarket.com by December 15th and place your bid on this remarkable and memorable expedition, valued at $25,000. (The bidding starts at $2,500.) The winner will be announced on December 16th. Bid Today! This unique package, Rhino Rendezvous, will give your group a rare opportunity to spend 4 days and 3 nights at IRF’s headquarters at the White Oak...

Adopt a Rhino

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:32:12 GMT

The Sumatran rhinoceros is one of the most endangered mammals on Earth. No more than 200 animals survive in small, isolated forest fragments in Indonesia and Malaysia. You can help to protect the Sumatran rhino from extinction by adopting a rhino at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary! The Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary (SRS), a 250-acre complex located within Way Kambas National Park in Sumatra, Indonesia, is currently home to five rhinos that are part of an intensively managed research and breeding program aimed at increasing the Sumatran rhino population in the wild. At the sanctuary, the rhinos reside in large, open areas where they can experience a natural rainforest habitat while still receiving state-of-the-art veterinary care and nutrition. You may choose to adopt any of the five rhinos at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary for as many days as you would like, either in your own name, or as a gift for a relative or friend who supports wildlife conservation! In honor of each adoption,...

Holiday Gift Ideas

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:10:15 GMT

This year, you can give the animal lover in your life a gift that will help to save rhinos! Looking for that perfect holiday gift for the family (or group of friends, or corporate team) that wants to help save rhinos? How about a 4-day, 3-night safari to see (and protect) some of the world’s most endangered species? And, you don’t even need to dust off your passport! For the second year, IRF is pleased to offer this truly unique opportunity, usually reserved for the world’s foremost global and corporate leaders, and select members of the White Oak Conservation Center Foundation. And, it’s all yours … for the winning bid. Just go to www.rhinosirf.cmarket.com by December 15th and place your bid on this remarkable and memorable expedition, valued at $25,000. (The bidding starts at $2,500.) The winner will be announced on December 16th. This unique package, Rhino Rendezvous, will give your group a rare...

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:07:17 GMT

Suggested Daily Itinerary

The Rhino Rendezvous experience will be custom-tailored to your request.

Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at your leisure or opt for a freshly prepared morning meal.

Morning Game Drives
Join members of our Conservation Center staff as we venture throughout the Conservation Center during feeding times for rhinos, cheetahs, antelope, and birds. You’ll have the opportunity for close-up photos, without a zoom lens!

Conservation Center Activities:

Rhino tour and feeding experience
Bird and Antelope Viewing
Giraffe Feeding Experience
Avian Tour and Feeding Experience
Veterinary Tour
Kayaking with Conservation Center naturalist
Nature Walk
Informational briefings with International Rhino Foundation Staff.

Lunch
Enjoy a private lunch with your group at one of White Oak’s spectacular dining venues.

White Oak Plantation Activities:

Canoeing or kayaking
Sporting Clays
Biking
Horseback-riding
Golf
Game Room

Sundowner River Cruise
Guests can enjoy cocktails as they cruise the St. Mary’s River.

Gourmet Dinner
Enjoy your evening and a spectacular, private meal at one of White Oak’s exceptional dining venues.

After-Dinner
Enjoy activities in the Game Room.

Back to main Rhino Redezvous page.

Raoul du Toit, IRF's African Rhino Program Advisor and Director of the Lowveld Rhino Trust in Zimbabwe Honored

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:10:27 GMT

Raoul du Toit and the Husky aircraft used in
rhino monitoring in Zimbabwe’s Lowveld.

We are pleased to announce that Raoul du Toit, IRF’s African Rhino Program Advisor and Director of the Lowveld Rhino Trust in Zimbabwe, was awarded the prestigiousSir Peter Scott Award for Conservation Merit from the IUCN Species Survival Commission. The Sir Peter Scott Award, the SSC’s highest honor, is presented to individuals in recognition of significant and long term service to conservation through their work with the SSC or associated institutions.

Congratulations, Raoul!

Raoul du Toit and Dr. Holly Dublin from the IUCN Species Survival Commission after the awards ceremony.

Thank you for completing our survey!

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 02:15:37 GMT

Thank you for your participation and we look forward to your responses.

Just for Kids

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 01:20:33 GMT

Rhino Origami: Download this easy guide sheet so you can make your very own origami rhino! Rhino Cards Zimbabwe: The Rhino Cards are an education pack for children and teacher that were developed for use in Zimbabwe by the SADC Regional Program for Rhino Conservation. Rhino Cards Zimbabwe (Teachers Guide): The Teacher's pages contain additional information on rhino conservation issues and a section containing guildelines for the use of the Rhino Cards and suggested class exercises. Make Your Own Savannah: Color your own savannah and then place your animals in their habitat. Designed by Givskud Zoo. Get Involved! You can help rhinos! Visit our fundraising idea page to get ideas on how you can raise awareness about rhino conservation! Write a poem! Read this beautiful poem written by Eva Malone, age 9. Rhino Silhouettes: Silhouettes of three rhino species so the sizes can be compared. Also includes...