Preventing Global Extinction of the Javan Rhino: Tsunami Risk and Future Conservation Direction

A critical analysis reveals that the global population of Javan rhinos (Rhinoceros sondaicus) stands at approximately 62 individuals, likely near the carrying capacity of Ujung Kulon National Park, their sole refuge. The study highlights significant tsunami risks to this endangered species, justifying the strategic translocation of individuals to establish a second population as a conservation measure. Researchers employed individual-based monitoring and demographic analysis to assess population dynamics and inform future conservation strategies. This approach aims to mitigate extinction risks while balancing the challenges associated with translocation efforts.

Setiawan, R., Gerber, B. D., Rahmat, U. M., Daryan, D., Firdaus, A. Y., Haryono, M., Khairani, K. O., Kurniawan, Y., Long, B., Lyet, A., Muhiban, M., Mahmud, R., Muhtarom, A., Purastuti, E., Ramono, W. S., Subrata, D., & Sunarto, S. (2017). Preventing Global Extinction of the Javan Rhino: Tsunami Risk and Future Conservation Direction. Conservation Letters, 11(1). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/conl.12366