How are we helping the Sumatran rhino suvive?

Scientists warn that not doing anything now could push Sumatran rhinos towards extinction. Photo: SOS Rhino

With Sumatran rhinos deemed to be extinct in the wild in Malaysia, the only hope for the species rests with the remaining population found in Sumatra. A new study has provided vital information on where on the island these rhinos are distributed, so conservation efforts can zero in on the sites.

The research by University of Massachusetts Amherst and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) surveyed three rhino hotspots in Sumatra, and singled out priority forest patches which must be fully protected in order to prevent extinction of the species.