Native to the African and Asian continents, the rhinoceros
or rhino as it is more commonly known is a member of the Perissodactyla order
and the family of rhinocerotidae. There are five living species of rhinos:
Black, Indian, Javan, Sumatran and White. Three out of five rhino species are
considered critically endangered and on the brink of extinction.
Every species of rhino is very large, weighing around one
ton in weight. This herbivores giant feeds mostly on plants leaves and plants
and live for an average of 60 years. Distinctive features include a thick skin
made of collagen and a horn (or two horns depending on species) made of
keratin. The rhino horn is used for weapon handles and medicine in many African
countries and has led to over hunting of the animal.
Because of the positioning of their horns, rhinos have very
poor eyesight and rely on other sense such as hearing and smell which are very
acute. Despite the occasional loss of a baby rhino to a lion or crocodile, the
rhino's real predator is the human being. Preservation efforts remain
ineffective.