One Horned Rhino >> Poaching

Poaching of rhino is the most serious concern for rhino conservation. Demand of rhino horn in the world market has put great threat to this endangered species. It is believed that the rhino horn possess aphrodisiac qualities. Many legends and beliefs are attached to this animal and its horn was generally believed to have peculiar medical virtues. The beliefs connected with the rhinos are prevalent in varying forms.

In Nepal, the flesh and the blood of the rhinoceros is considered highly acceptable to the manes. High caste Hindus used to offer libation of the animals blood after entering its disemboweled body. The urine is considered as antiseptics and is hung in a vessel at the principal door as a charm against ghost, evil sprits and diseases. There is conviction that topical application of the urine cure ear infection, and if taken internally, it cures asthma and tuberculosis. Rhino dung is smoked in a pipe to cure fever and a powder form or the grounded horn is sold as an aphrodisiac.

From 1976 to 1983, poaching was virtually stopped in the park but from1984 poaching surged again, as poachers became familiar with the park patrolling system. About 20 rhinos were killed between 1984 to1991. In 1992, 18 rhinos were killed in the Chitwan valley. A timely decision was made to form Anti-poaching units and to provide rewards to the informants for controlling and combating particularly rhino poaching. The anti-poaching measure was effective to minimize the poaching.