Wednesday, April 21, 2010

First rhino in the wild in Sabah that may be pregnant

Kota Kinabalu: Images of a Sumatran rhino - believed to be below 20 years and pregnant - captured by Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) and WWF-Malaysia's remote camera trap devices in the State, have signalled a new hope for continued survival of the species.

Currently, there are estimated to be less than 30 rhinos left in Borneo.

"It would be wonderful if this female is pregnant, since there are so few Sumatran rhinos left in the world that each calf represents a lifeline for the species," says Dr Terry Roth, an international expert on Rhino.

Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) Director, Dr Laurentius Ambu, on the other hand, highlighted the importance of strong and co-ordinated enforcement in the forest and wildlife reserves by relevant government agencies and NGOs to ensure survival of this species in Borneo's forests.

WWF-Malaysia is working closely with Sabah Forestry Department, SWD and Sabah Foundation, with the support of police, to ensure the safety and survival of this endangered species in Borneo.

Dr Laurentius said consistent monitoring of the rhino population here has been productive so far, as two rhino calves have been identified in this part of region. His department is also now working closely with WWF-Malaysia and Borneo Rhino Alliance (BORA) to finalise the Rhino Action Plan expected to be ready for full implementation by August 2010.

The "Rhino Action Plan" will address the conservation plans of the viable population including isolated rhinos. He emphasises that his department will have a different approach in managing the viable and isolated rhino population in Sabah.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: First rhino in the wild in Sabah that may be pregnant
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