Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Rhinoceroses have roamed the Earth for millions of years, surviving through ages of evolution. However, as not much population remains today, many fact about Rhinos people are not aware of.
Today only five species of rhinos remain: Two in Africa — the white rhino (Ceratotherium simum) and the black rhino (Diceros bicornis) and Three in Asia — the Indian rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), the Javan rhino (Rhinoceros sondaicus), and the Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis).
These remarkable creatures are scattered across Eastern and Southern Africa, India, Nepal, and Indonesia. Some of rhinos species are classified as critically endangered, face a daunting battle against extinction due to habitat loss, poaching.
Amid the looming threat of extinction faced by several rhino species, many people remain unaware of some key facts about these remarkable animals. Here are some Fact About Rhinos.
The Origins of the Name “Rhino”
The name “rhinoceros” is derived from ancient Greek with “rhino” meaning “nose” and “ceros” meaning “horn.” It translates to “nose horn,” a fitting description for these animals whose iconic horned snouts define them. The rhino’s horn, though often referred to as a “horn,” is not bone but rather a mass of tightly packed keratin, the same protein that makes up human hair and nails.
The Second Largest Land Mammal
Rhinos are the second-largest land mammals after elephants. Of the five species, the white rhino is the largest, growing up to 1.8 meters in height and weighing as much as 2,500 kilograms. In contrast, the Sumatran rhino, the smallest of the species, can still weigh between 800 to 1,000 kilograms and stand about 1.5 meters tall — impressive by any standard.
Herbivores with Specialized Diets
Despite their massive size, rhinos are herbivores. Their diets vary by species and are closely related to the shape of their snouts. For example, the Javan rhino has a pointed upper lip, perfect for grasping foliage, while the white rhino has a wide, flat mouth adapted for grazing on grass. The black rhino, with its elongated lips, feeds primarily on leaves and fruit from taller shrubs and trees.
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Surprisingly Swift
Despite their bulky frames, rhinos are capable of running at remarkable speeds. They can sprint between 48 to 65 kilometers per hour, demonstrating agility that allows them to skillfully dodge trees and vegetation, making sharp turns even at high speeds.
Rhino Horn: Not Your Typical Horn
While rhino horns may appear similar to the antlers of other animals, they differ significantly. Unlike typical horns, rhino horns are made of keratin, not bone, and are not attached to the animal’s skull. These horns continue to grow throughout the rhino’s life. Among the species, white rhinos boast the longest horns, with one recorded at 1.7 meters in length. Both white, black, and Sumatran rhinos possess two horns, while Indian and Javan rhinos typically have just one, with some female Javan rhinos displaying little or no horn at all.
Thick, Yet Sensitive Skin
Rhinos are known for their thick skin, which can be up to two inches thick. However, despite this armor-like exterior, their skin is surprisingly sensitive to sunburn and insect bites. To protect themselves, rhinos often wallow in mud, which serves as a natural sunblock and insect repellent as it dries on their bodies.
A Key Role in Forest and Wildlife Conservation
Rhinos play a crucial role in maintaining forest ecosystems and benefiting other wildlife. As they forage for food, rhinos naturally clear paths through dense vegetation, which other animals then use. Their diet of young shoots also promotes plant regeneration, allowing for healthy forest growth. Additionally, as rhinos wallow in mud, seeds and plant matter stick to their skin, and as they travel long distances, these seeds are dispersed, aiding in the growth of new plants across vast areas of land.
The survival of rhinos is not only essential to biodiversity but also to the health of the ecosystems they inhabit. Despite their important role, all five species are endangered, with poaching and habitat loss threatening their populations. Conservation efforts are more critical than ever to ensure these ancient giants continue to roam the Earth for generations to come.
(Raidi/Agung)
