The Importance of Dehorning Rhinos
With the rise in awareness of rhino poaching many conservation strategies have been employed in recent years to save these magnificent animals. A possible solution: DehorningOne potential option that has proven effective is the practice of dehorning. Today, we take a behind-the-scenes look at this highly time-sensitive and incredibly important process managed by professionals which all revolves around the goal of thwarting poachers.
Why Dehorn Rhinos?
The illegal trade in rhino horn is a key driver of poaching, with horns revered for their supposed medicinal properties and as status symbols. Conservationists harvest the horns by humanely de-horning to Bogent, Kenya (above), Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo and Taronga.Wildlife-RescueAndThis article originally appeared on By National Geographic Photo by Brent Stirton This technique has been used in places like Kaziranga National Park from where rhinos are constantly disappearing due to poaching.
The Dehorning Process
The process of dehorning is conducted under careful supervision with a vet. Today, Lets drill down to those basic things involved in SRE.
1. Preparation and Anesthesia
A complete examination and workup of the general health status is completed prior to starting any procedures. The animal is then sedated to keep it from wriggling and squirming too much during the surgery. This helps keep the animal and professionals safe.
2. Removal of the Horn
Specialists carefully cut the horn from the sedated rhino. The goal is to stop it with the least amount of trauma and pain possible. The keratin that forms the base of the horn is removed, but avoids presenting damage to underlying tissue.
3. Post-Procedure Care
Once the dehorning procedure is over, monitors sit with its immobile body while it regains consciousness. The affected patients are given necessary medical attention by veterinary staff to prevent infection and help with healing.
The Impact of Dehorning
In some places, this method has already proven effective in preventing poaching techniques. It may not completely eliminate the threat, but it certainly takes out a large part of why poachers are compelled. In addition, this approach enables rhinos to remain in their original habitats without the fear of being hunted down.
Conclusion
On the front lines in our war against wildlife crime is the dehorning of rhinos, a complex process designed to meet illegal horn demand. The blog features the very creative approaches that conservationists are employing nowadays just to save these otherworldly creatures. We will be able to learn more about what is involved in looking after rhinos and see how much effort goes into saving the species from extinction.
