Rhino Poaching in South Africa reached it's all time high in 2010 when a total of 333 Rhinos were killed illegally by poachers, ten of which were critically endangered black rhinos. The Kruger National Park was hit hardest by the poaching spike, losing 146 rhinos, both black and white. The predominant cause for this spike in rhino poaching is due to the increased demand for rhino horn, which has for a long time been prized in traditional Asian medicine. There have also been claims that the rhino horn possesses cancer healing properties, however, these claims have not been proven. A rhino horn is currently sold at about US$20000 per kilo. "The current wave of poaching is being committed by sophisticated criminal networks using helicopters, night-vision equipment, veterinary tranquilisers and silencers to kill rhinos at night while attempting to avoid law enforcement patrols. The criminal syndicates operating in South Africa have been described as highly organised and coordinated, using advanced technologies – this is not typical poaching." - (http://www.afrikaforce.org.za/2011/04/12/rhino-poaching-in-south-africa/)
Furthermore the South African Government is considering legalizing the trade of rhino horn in order to prevent the illegal trade of ivory. More info at www.timeslive.co.za/Politics/article1049977.ece/Govt-to-legalise-trade-in-rhino-horns
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP:
1. Go to the petition site and sign this petition against Rhino Poaching http://www.thepetitionsite.com/8/stand-against-rhino-poaching/
2. You shouldnt purchase any products made from or containing ivory. The smaller the market for ivory is, the less poaching there will be.
3. Do not put your faith in unproven medicinal methods such as the claim that rhino horn can cure cancer. Rather put your energy into being a part of solving the problems that cause cancer (toxic fumes in the air, eating food with absolutely no sustenance etc).
BECOME A PART OF THE SOLUTION. NEVER BELIEVE THAT YOU AS AN INDIVIDUAL CANNOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE. IT ALL STARTS WITH ONE ACTION THAT IN THE END WILL MAKE A THOUSAND RIPPLES.
