World Rhino Day

World Rhino Day History

World Rhino Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of rhinoceros conservation, as well as encouraging action to protect these remarkable animals from extinction. This observance highlights the various challenges facing rhino populations, such as habitat loss and poaching for their horns, which are believed to have medicinal properties in some cultures.

Established in 2010 by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and several other African wildlife organizations, World Rhino Day has grown significantly over the years. Participation in World Rhino Day offers an opportunity to support international efforts in rhino conservation, as well as domestic initiatives involving rhino species in American zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. This event serves as a reminder of the need for continued cooperation and dialogue between nations to address global conservation issues like illegal wildlife trade, which directly contributes to the endangerment of rhinos.

World Rhino Day is observed through a variety of activities, such as educational programs in schools, interactive exhibits at zoos, and conservation-themed events hosted by wildlife organizations. These events aim to raise funds for rhino conservation efforts and promote public engagement in protecting these incredible animals. World Rhino Day takes place annually on September 22nd.

World Rhino Day facts

• There are five species of rhino: black, white, greater one-horned rhinos, Javan and Sumatran. All Rhinoceros are herbivores, meaning that they only consume plants, and lots of them.
• In 1960, there were more than 2,000 northern white rhinos in Africa. Today, there are only 2 of them remaining. The last male of the subspecies, Sudan, died March 19, 2018. He was the father and grandfather of the two remaining ones, both of which are females held in captivity in Kenya with round-the-clock armed security against poaching.
• The Black, Javan and Sumatran Rhinoceros species are all listed as Critically Endangered, meaning that they have a 50% change of extinction within 3 generations.
• The white rhino is the second largest land mammal on Earth after the elephant. White rhinos can weigh over 3500kg (7700lbs).
• The rhino is now more or less extinct, and it's not because of global warming or shrinking habitats. It's because of Beyoncé's handbags. - Steven Patrick Morrissey, British singer

In the News and Trending in the US for World Rhino Day

Top things to do in the US for World Rhino Day

• Go to the zoo. Most zoos have special separate talks with keepers about different types of rhinos and the problems they face in the wild.
• Spend some time learning more about other endangered species on the brink of extinction.
• Donate to charities and organizations that support rhinos and other endangered wildlife such as WWF, International Fund for Animal Welfare and Defenders of Wildlife.
• Watch a documentary about rhino poaching and extinction. Our picks: The Last Rhinos, The Price and Gambling on Extinction.
• Organize a fundraiser. Host a walk, jog or cycle and involve your community to raise funds for endangered animals and the global conservation efforts.