The Environment Ministry of Indonesia announced the birth of another Sumatran Rhinoceros at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary (SRS) in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung province. This marks the second birth of the critically endangered species at the reserve this year.
The male calf, born last Saturday, weighed approximately 25 kilograms (55.12 lb). The birth was the result of natural mating, bringing the total population at the sanctuary to 10. The black rhino is the smallest and hairiest of its species.
Delilah, the mother of the newborn, was born in the same national park in 2016. The Rhino Foundation of Indonesia confirmed that the birth affirmed Indonesia’s commitment to conserving the Sumatran rhino.
“The birth has somewhat affirmed Indonesia’s commitment to conserving rhinoceros, especially the Sumatran rhino,” stated Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya.
According to a 2019 government assessment, there are less than 80 Sumatran rhinos in the world, and all of them are located in Indonesia. The Sumatran rhino, the only Asian rhino with two horns, can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 ft) tall, weighing between 500 kg (1,102 lb) and 960 kg (2,116 lb).
This recent birth follows the arrival of a 27-kilogram female calf at the same facility last month, reflecting ongoing efforts to preserve and protect this critically endangered species.
