Indonesian Rhinoceros Conservation Day on June 21st

“Every 21st of June, people are reminded to always protect and conserve rhinos, especially Javan Rhinos in Indonesia, which could only be found in Ujung Kulon National Park,” said Agus Priambudi.
Agus said the Javan Rhino population in Ujung Kulon National Park is estimated to be only 50 rhinos based on the last census on Javan Rhino population. Therefore, by conducting captive breeding, as the Forestry Minister and Banten Governor Ratu Atut Chosiyah has officially announced on Monday (21/6), the population is expected to increase to 75 rhinos by 2015.
Besides declaring Javan Rhino captive breeding and the Indonesian Rhinoceros Conservation Day, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) also declared June 21st as the International Rhinoceros Day at the event.
Agus Priambudi said the location for Javan Rhino captive breeding is centered in a 3000 hectares area, which is taken from the 38,000 hectares habitat of Javan Rhinos in Ujung Kulon National Park. The breeding center will be located at the southern region of Honje Mountain and will be surrounded by 24 kilometers of 2 meter tall electric fences.
“Javan Rhinos will be herded in by a team of rhino experts and researchers. The electric fence is not dangerous, as it will only lightly shock the animals,” said Agus.
The aim of captive breeding is to prevent poaching and other animals disturbing the Javan Rhino population, and guarantee sufficient feed, water, and breeding ground. With captive breeding, the population of Javan Rhinos is expected to increase from the current 50 rhinos to 75 rhinos by 2015.
Previously on Monday (21/6), the Forestry Minister of Indonesia Zulkifli Hasan and Banten Governor Ratu Atut Chosiyah officially announced Javan Rhino Captive Breeding in Ujung Kulon National Park. Besides that the Minister and Governor also declared June 21st as the Indonesian Rhinoceros Conservation Day.
(ANT/A024)

Source : Antaranews