Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Among the five remaining species of rhinoceros, two are found exclusively in Indonesia: the Sumatran rhino and the Javan rhino, both critically endangered. While much is known about the African rhino species, fact about Javan rhinos are still not widely known.
This elusive creature, Rhinoceros sondaicus, is the rarest of all rhinos and is listed as “critically endangered” on the IUCN Red List, just one step away from extinction.
Currently, the Javan rhino is found only in Ujung Kulon National Park (TNUK), located on the southwestern tip of Java island, Indonesia. Once roaming across Southeast Asia, today they are confined to this protected area.
Distinctive Single Horn
One of the key characteristics of the Javan rhino is its single horn, which sets it apart from other species. Unlike the Indian rhino, which also has a single horn but larger, the Javan rhino’s horn is the smallest among rhino species. The horns measured between 20 and 27 centimeters in length, made of hardened keratin, the same material found in buffalo or cow horns.
The Javan rhino rarely uses its horn for combat. Instead, it utilizes the horn to dig up mud in wallows, pull down plants to eat, or clear paths through dense vegetation.
The World’s Rarest Rhino
Javan rhinos are one of the most endangered animals on Earth. Once inhabiting vast regions of Southeast Asia, from central Java, West Java, Sumatra, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, even reaching as far as India, the species is now restricted to Ujung Kulon National Park. The park has become the last sanctuary for the species, but it also poses challenges due to limited genetic diversity within the population.
Slow Reproduction Rates
Javan rhinos are notoriously slow breeders, which further complicates conservation efforts. Although there was recent good news of a newborn Javan rhino captured on a camera trap, reproduction remains rare. Female Javan rhinos give birth to only one calf every 4 to 5 years after a gestation period of 15 to 16 months. The species also tends to be solitary, spending most of its life in isolation. The average lifespan of a Javan rhino is around 40 to 45 years.
No Natural Predators
Aside from human poaching, Javan rhinos have no natural predators. Adult Javan rhinos living in Ujung Kulon National Park are safe from natural threats. However, poaching still poses a threat for this exotic species.
Fact About Sumatran Rhinos, The Most Endangered Rhino on Earth
The anti-poaching efforts remain a critical focus. To protect these rhinos, Ujung Kulon’s management has established joint patrol teams to prevent illegal hunting and human interference that could threaten the species’ delicate habitat.
Limited Data and Research
Despite the urgent need to conserve the Javan rhino, data on the species remains scarce. Their solitary nature and preference for dense tropical forests make them difficult to study. Researchers rely on camera traps and dung samples to monitor the rhinos’ health and behavior. However, the lack of detailed knowledge about their habits and biology complicates efforts to manage and conserve the species.
Javan rhinos are notoriously shy and sensitive to disturbances, making them difficult to track and study. Even minor disruptions in their environment can cause stress to these elusive creatures.
As one of the most endangered mammals on the planet, the Javan rhino’s survival depends on sustained conservation efforts. Protecting these animals and their last remaining habitat is vital to ensuring that this rare species does not disappear forever.
(Raidi/Agung)
