Overview
This is the largest of the Sumatran rhino subspecies.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Family
- Rhinocerotidae
- Genus
- Dicerorhinus
- Species
- Dicerorhinus sumatrensis
Habitat
Rainforest and swamps. Distribution- Burma, Malaysia
Diet
Mainly a grazer.
Behavior
Adult males are usually solitary outside of breeding times and cow-calf groups will congregate around grazing, wallowing, and salt lick areas. Poor eye-sight but excellent senses of hearing and smell. They are good swimmers and can run fast for short distances. Generally non-aggressive but will charge when threatened.
Hunting
This species is not hunted and is highly protected. When in rhino country it is important to stay on guard as these animals will charge and act agressive if they feel threatened or for no apparent reason. Years of unregulated hunting were followed by a huge increase in poaching once protective measures were put in place. Any sightings would be scientifically significant.
Conservation Status
Listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN and there numbers are so low that they were listed as Extinct in the Wild until recently when a few were spotted in Burma, Malaysia. An estimated 15 individuals are alive today.