In a pioneering effort to combat rhino poaching, South African scientists have injected radioactive material into the horns of 20 rhinos. This initiative aims to make the horns detectable at international borders and reduce poaching activities.
Researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand’s Radiation and Health Physics Unit spearheaded the project, known as the Rhisotope Project. The process involved tranquilizing the rhinos, drilling a small hole into their horns, and inserting non-toxic radioisotopes. This effort was conducted at The Rhino Orphanage in Mokopane, Limpopo District.
James Larkin, leading the project, explained that the radioactive material would trigger alarms on existing radiation detection systems at borders, aiding authorities in intercepting smuggled horns and apprehending traffickers. Larkin highlighted the critical situation by noting that a rhino is killed for its horn every 20 hours in South Africa.
The procedure was carefully designed to ensure the safety of the rhinos, causing no pain or long-term harm. The radioisotopes are expected to remain effective for five years, offering a more sustainable solution compared to dehorning, which needs to be repeated every 18 months.
South Africa, home to the world’s largest populations of white rhinos and nearly half of Africa’s black rhino population, faces severe poaching challenges. Despite conservation efforts, more than 500 rhinos are killed annually. Poaching saw a temporary decline during the COVID-19 pandemic but has surged again with the easing of lockdown restrictions.
Larkin emphasized the need for innovative methods to combat poaching. “We’ve got to do something new and different to reduce poaching,” he stated. While some, like Pelham Jones of the Private Rhino Owners Association, doubt the method’s effectiveness, suggesting poachers might find alternative smuggling routes, the research team remains optimistic.
Professor Nithaya Chetty from the University of the Witwatersrand assured that the radioactivity levels are minimal and pose no risk to the rhinos. The goal is to devalue rhino horns in the eyes of end users and facilitate their detection at border crossings.
The global rhino population has dramatically decreased from around 500,000 in the early 20th century to about 27,000 today, mainly due to poaching. Rhino horns are highly valued on the black market, surpassing the prices of gold, platinum, and diamonds.
South Africa’s Department of Environmental Affairs reported 499 rhinos poached in 2023, marking an increase from the previous year.
The Rhisotope Project will monitor the health of the 20 rhinos over the next six months to assess the feasibility and impact of this approach. The project has the potential to significantly improve anti-poaching efforts and protect endangered species from extinction.
Orphanage founder Arrie van Deventer expressed hope that this innovative method will be effective in curbing poaching. “Maybe this is the thing that will stop poaching,” he said. “This is the best idea I’ve ever heard.”
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