World's Most Endangered Species: 2 Young Javan Rhinos Seen in Indonesia National Park

The Ministry of Environment and Forest announced that Indonesia has welcomed 2 young Javan rhinos. They both descend from one of the families of the world's most endangered species. A small rhino was seen trudging alongside another rhino nearly three times its size.

The horned herbivores were seen in the muddy terrain within the protected expanse of Ujung Kulon National Park on the western tip of Java island, according to hidden camera footage provided by the ministry over the weekend.

The births, according to Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar, will ensure that rhino populations continue to increase.

Ujung Kulon National Park

The Ujung Kulon peninsula, several offshore islands, and the Krakatoa natural reserve are all included in this national park, which is situated at the very southernmost point of Java on the Sunda shelf. Its lowland rainforest area is the largest remaining in the Java plain, in addition to its natural magnificence and geological interest, which is particularly interesting for the study of inland volcanoes.

According to UNESCO World Heritage Convention, there are numerous endangered plant and animal species there, with the Javan rhinoceros facing the greatest danger.

Other Species. Although it is unknown how the current density of Javan rhinos compares to earlier densities, it is an alarmingly low number from the perspectives of genetic diversity and species survival. Carnivores like the leopard, leopard cat, wild dog (dhole), fishing cat, Javan mongoose, and various species of civets are among the other notable mammals found on the property.

Three endemic primate species can be found there as well, including the Javan leaf monkey, Javan gibbon, and silvered leaf monkey. There are over 270 bird species known to exist, as well as two types of python, two types of crocodile, and a large number of frogs and toads.

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Poaching and Other Illegal Acts. The main management concern on the property has historically been the poaching of Javan rhinos. Population growth has been facilitated by management actions that have strengthened protection, with in situ population preservation receiving top priority in conservation efforts.

The value of the property is still under threat from growing agricultural encroachment, illegal firewood collection and logging in the terrestrial areas, and illegal commercial fishing in the park's marine components. To ensure the long-term preservation of the property, these issues, along with the effects of tourism, all require monitoring and the enforcement of regulations.

Critically endangered Javan Rhinos

World Wildlife Fund data shows that Javan rhinos are listed as "critically endangered. This species has a single, up to 10-inch-long horn and is a dusky gray color. Its skin is covered in numerous loose folds that resemble armor plating. The Javan rhino shares striking physical similarities with the closely related larger one-horned rhinoceros, but it is smaller in size and has less obvious skin folds.

In the past, Javan rhinos roamed Southeast Asia and northeast India. 2010 saw the poaching of the last Javan rhino in Vietnam.

According to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, the updated tally for Javan rhinos in Ujung Kulon is up to 77, FOX News reports.

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