Javan Rhinoceros

Rhinoceros sondaicus

The Javan Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus), is a critically endangered species native to the dense tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Renowned for being one of the rarest large mammals on Earth, this magnificent creature is characterized by its single short horn, typically less than 25 cm, and a grey, loose-folded skin resembling armor plates. Adult Javan rhinos are relatively solitary animals and stand about 1.5 to 1.7 meters tall at the shoulder, measuring 2 to 3 meters in length. These herbivorous creatures primarily feed on a varied diet of leaves, shoots, and young branches. Once widespread across several regions in Asia, their population has drastically diminished, mainly due to habitat loss and poaching for their horns. Currently, they are confined to the Ujung Kulon National Park on the western tip of Java, Indonesia, which serves as their last refuge. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this species and its habitat, ensuring its survival for future generations.