Save the Rhino

I knew that Rhinos were poached for their horns’ value.  I knew they were endangered.  I knew they were being killed by the numbers.  I knew all of this, yet the elephants being poached for their tusks, and the pit bulls being used for dog fighting seemed more important.  I did not even think twice about Rhinos, such a random yet beautiful animal.

Then I saw this photo on National Geographic:

It’s of a Black Rhino that game scouts found wandering with bullet wounds and the poor thing’s horns cut off.  They had to euthanize him.

What is happening to these animals is a tragedy and going right under most of our noses.  This needs to be stopped and there’s something you and I can do to at least help out.

First, and the most obvious, is donating to organizations that dedicate their time to saving this endangered species.  A good one that I have found is Save the Rhino International.  Check them out and see how you can help.

Second, do NOT buy anything with Rhino horn in it.  The horn is used in daggers, and is used in Asian medicine.  If you’re traveling abroad, just be careful about what souvenirs and products you purchase.

 Third, tell everyone you know about the dangers Rhinos are facing.  Rhinoceroses are such interesting creatures, so dinosaur like, and it would be an extremely sad thing if they weren’t around for our children to see.

 Check out more ways you can help the Rhino here.  Also, check out National Geographic’s feature article: Rhino Wars.

Please, the word about Rhinos needs to be spread.  Be active in wildlife conservation.

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*Note: Check out the links above for more information and for my sources.  The picture above was taken from National Geographic.  The words of this article are my own: © Kalie Lyn, 2012.*