Nepal Gifts Rhinos to China: Conservation Concerns Arise

Kathmandu, October 01, 2023 - To symbolize the lasting bond between Nepal and China, the Nepali government has revealed its plan to present two greater one-horned rhinos as a gift to China. Despite being aimed at enhancing their diplomatic connection, conservation experts have expressed concern about how this move could affect the vulnerable rhino species and their habitats.

Nepal is among a handful of countries where one can find the one-horned rhinoceros, also known as the Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), in its natural environment. The biggest of the three Asian rhino varieties, these creatures have a distinctive single black horn that grows up to 8 to 25 inches. Their armor-like grayish-brown skin with creases sets them apart. Generally, these rhinos prefer solitude except when grown males or those nearing maturity gather for activities like grazing or wallowing. Their diet mostly consists of grasses, leaves, tree and shrub branches, fruits, and aquatic plants.

The presence of one-horned rhinos in Nepal attracts tourists and wildlife lovers worldwide to visit national parks such as Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park. Rhino tourism not only aids the local economy but also generates funding for further conservation projects. Moreover, the existence of this magnificent species has significant ecological, cultural, and conservation implications for Nepal.

During a recent visit by Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal to Beijing, the decision to offer the rhinos emerged. Conservationists have urged authorities to be cautious in choosing specific animals for this task. Removing young rhinos from their mothers should be a last resort since it can cause stress for both parties involved. Orphaned young rhinos raised under human care are considered ideal candidates as they are less likely to harm others and have already adapted to human food sources.

The vulnerability of the greater one-horned rhinoceros is a primary concern. Once widespread across the northern region of the Indian subcontinent, their species faced near extinction due to hunting and loss of habitat. At the beginning of the 20th century, their numbers decreased to around 200 individuals. Thankfully, strict protection and management endeavors by Nepalese and Indian wildlife authorities have led to a gradual increase in population. 

The long-term survival of these rhinos depends upon transboundary preservation initiatives between Nepal and India. Coordinated efforts, such as anti-poaching measures and habitat management between nations are vital. Research and monitoring systems in Nepal observe rhino populations, health, and behaviors. This information offers valuable data for conservationists and researchers working towards better comprehension and protection of the species. Additionally, Nepal has implemented laws to protect one-horned rhinos and their habitats from poaching and illegal trading.

Today, nearly 4,000 greater one-horned rhinos call the Terai grasslands of Nepal and northeastern India home. Nonetheless, significant threats persist, such as habitat loss caused by human actions and illegal trading of rhino horns. Many protected zones that house rhino populations are nearing their capacity limit, so it's essential to act prudently when relocating these creatures for diplomatic reasons.

According to the National Rhino Count 2021 conducted by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation in Nepal, the current population of one-horned rhinos in Nepal is 752. Out of these, 694 are in Chitwan, 38 in Bardia, 17 in Shuklaphanta, and 3 in Parsa National Parks and their surrounding areas. Compared to the previous census in 2015, which counted 645 rhinos, this is an increase by 107 rhinos.

As Nepal presents greater one-horned rhinos to China as a diplomatic gesture, the conservation community stresses the need to prioritize these majestic animals' welfare while continuously working to protect these vulnerable species for future generations. Achieving a balance between fostering diplomatic ties and addressing conservation concerns is vital for securing the one-horned rhinoceros's future.