World Rhino Day
World Rhino Day is annually celebrated on the 22nd of September. It provides an opportunity for governments, animal rights organizations, animal enthusiasts, NGOs, members of the public, and schools to show their support for rhinos. World Rhino Day was initiated WWF-South Africa in 2010. Since then it has grown into an international success.
It is a vitally important day as it brings
attention to the plight of this iconic species. It is celebrated with the
theme: “Five Rhino Species Forever”, celebrating all five species of rhino:
Black, White, Indian (Greater one-horned), Sumatran and Javan rhinos.
World Rhino Day generates awareness of issues regarding their
wellbeing and survival. This day specifically highlights why rhinos are
important for the environment and for local communities. Moreover, it provides
an opportunity to debunk the myths associated with rhino horn as well as to
reduce the demand for it.
Certain rhino species are on the brink of extinction while other species have been severely endangered due to several threats including poaching, urbanization and pollution.
Why are Rhinos
important?
·
Rhinos
assist in maintaining a natural balance within their habitat. The Greater
one-horned rhino in India and Nepal can germinate the seeds of the Trewia tree
with its dung. In Africa, the White rhinos play a vital role in creating and
preserving grasslands which many species depend upon. Therefore, they are
classified as a keystone species, playing an important role in supporting other
animals and their environment.
·
Rhinos
are an umbrella species, meaning that when people protect rhinos, they are also
protecting all the other animals living in their shared habitat including
birdlife, fish, insects and other mammals.
·
Rhinos
are important for eco-tourism as people need them too. In areas where rhinos
and humans live alongside each other, they are an asset for eco-tourism and
help to regenerate the local economy.
·
Rhinos
are undeniably part of our natural heritage.
·
If
rhinos were to become extinct, it would not only be a great loss for humanity
but also for the local communities where rhinos are part of their heritage.
Here are a few interesting rhino facts:
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| Source: The Prowess |
Connect
with World Rhino Day at facebook.com/WorldRhinoDay and follow them on twitter
@RhinoDaySept22 by using the hashtag #worldrhinoday2018.
References
https://www.savetherhino.org/get_involved/world_rhino_day_2016