In Focus: White Rhinoceros

Rhinos have been poached relentlessly. Some cultures believe the rhino horn possesses medicinal properties, none of which has been proven clinically. Poachers kill the rhino, then saw off the horn, a material simlar to matted hair or fingernails. If a mother is killed for her horn, the orphaned rhino is left to die. Rhinos are endangered as a consequence.

Anti-poaching has improved greatly with a range of techniques. Look closely at the mother rhino, right. Her horn was intentionally removed by game managers in an effort to deter poachers. When the horn regrows to a size that places the animal at risk, it will be pruned again.

Photographed in the Karongwe Private Reserve (near Kruger National Park), South Africa.