Fact Check: Are white rhinos extinct?

Are White Rhinos Extinct?

The claim regarding the extinction status of white rhinos is nuanced, as it involves two distinct subspecies: the northern white rhino and the southern white rhino. The northern white rhino is reported to be functionally extinct, with only two individuals remaining, both of which are under constant protection. In contrast, the southern white rhino population has seen a recovery, with thousands of individuals still existing. This article will explore the current status of white rhinos, the distinctions between the subspecies, and the implications of their conservation status.

What We Know

Northern White Rhino: The northern white rhino (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) is considered functionally extinct, with only two known individuals remaining, both females, living under armed guard in Kenya. This status has been confirmed by multiple sources, including a recent article from BBC Travel, which emphasizes the urgency of conservation efforts for these animals 1.
Southern White Rhino: In contrast, the southern white rhino (Ceratotherium simum simum) has a population of approximately 17,464 individuals as of 2023. This subspecies has benefited from successful conservation programs that have helped it recover from near extinction in the late 19th century when only about 20 to 50 individuals were left 8. The International Rhino Foundation reports that the southern white rhino population is currently stable and increasing in several regions of Africa 3.
Conservation Status: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the northern white rhino as critically endangered and possibly extinct, while the southern white rhino is classified as near threatened. This classification reflects the ongoing threats of poaching and habitat loss that both subspecies face 2 9.
Current Conservation Efforts: Conservation organizations, such as the International Rhino Foundation and the World Wildlife Fund, are actively involved in efforts to protect both subspecies. For the northern white rhino, efforts include advanced reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization, to attempt to produce offspring from the remaining individuals 6 9.

Analysis

The claim that white rhinos are extinct is misleading without context. The distinction between the northern and southern white rhinos is crucial. The northern white rhino is indeed functionally extinct, but the southern white rhino population is thriving due to conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Verdict: Misleading

The assertion that white rhinos are extinct is misleading because it fails to differentiate between the two subspecies. While the northern white rhino is functionally extinct, with only two individuals remaining, the southern white rhino population is stable and thriving, numbering over 17,000 individuals. This distinction is critical for understanding the overall status of white rhinos.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the conservation status of both subspecies is precarious, with ongoing threats such as poaching and habitat loss. The evidence supporting the current population status comes from reputable sources, but there are limitations in the methodologies used to assess these populations, which can be influenced by various external factors.

Readers should remain aware that while the claim is misleading, it reflects a complex reality that requires careful consideration. It is essential to critically evaluate information regarding wildlife conservation and to recognize the nuances involved in such discussions.