Success: Sumatran Rhino Finds New Hope in Indonesian Sanctuary

Target: Dr. Terri Roth, Director of Conservation & Research of Endangered Wildlife at the Cincinnati Zoo

Goal: Praise the Cincinnati Zoo for successfully sending the endangered Sumatran rhino home to breed.

Thanks in part to the ForceChange community, progress has been made in saving the Sumatran rhino. The Cincinnati Zoo has taken a big step towards saving this endangered rhino from extinction. Harry, a Sumatran rhino raised in the zoo from birth, has successfully completed a 10,000-mile journey back to his homeland in Indonesia. There, he will be reunited with other Sumatran rhinos in a protected sanctuary with the hopes that they will breed.

Harry is one of three Sumatran rhinos born in captivity. Therefore, the decision to send Harry to the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Indonesia wasn’t made lightly. The stresses of traveling, along with possible adjustment issues, were taken into consideration. However, with only 100 Sumatran rhinos left in the wild, it was crucial that something be done. Recently declared extinct in Malaysia, this animal has fought a difficult battle against poachers and habitat fragmentation. The Sumatran rhino has also disappeared from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. While efforts are being made to stop poachers and protect this rhino, breeding programs remain the best chance for survival.

After a long journey, Harry has safely made it to the sanctuary. He will spend his first two weeks in quarantine and then be united with the other rhinos to begin the breeding process. Sign below to show your support for the Cincinnati Zoo and their conservation efforts. Thanks to them, the Sumatran rhino now has a greater chance of survival.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Dr. Roth,

The Sumatran rhino has been battling extinction for decades. Due to the increased value of its horns, it has become a primary target for poachers. In addition, human development has led to the destruction of its land, leaving the Sumatran rhino homeless. With only 100 Sumatran rhinos currently alive in the wild, it is crucial that efforts be made to save this endangered species.

Your work to save the Sumatran rhino from extinction has not gone without notice. By sending Harry to the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Indonesia, you have given him and his species a greater chance of survival.

We thank you for educating the public on the Sumatran rhino. We encourage you to continue your educational programs and hope that you will remain supportive of the Sumatran rhino.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: hotblack