Poachers Slaughter Pregnant Rhino At Nairobi National Park

Rhinos are facing multiple threats to their survival, all of which are caused by humans. In the past few decades there has been a drastic decline in their population. Despite anti poaching measures, their numbers are dwindling.  After almost six years, poachers have again killed a rhino at the Nairobi National Park, fueling concerns about the risk to these animals.

A latest report from the Kenyan Wildlife Service officials states that poachers have mercilessly shot and slaughtered a pregnant white rhino at the Nairobi National Park. This incident has raised eyebrows as this the first time in the past six years a rhino has been killed.

Despite all efforts to protect the rhino population in Africa that is in crisis, there are hundreds of rhinos that are being slaughtered by poachers to fuel the growing demand for their prized horns.

 The recent incident at the National Park came to light after Chris Donohue, who was driving through the National Park, spotted the dead rhino surrounded by three hungry lions. The rhino had its horn sliced off and stomach opened up, reports the Associated Press.

The incident reportedly took place on Friday when gun-wielding poachers killed the pregnant rhino while it stood near a watering hole.

"It shows the great heights these criminals are willing to go," said Paul Udoto, the wildlife service's spokesman. "It's something we are taking very seriously because it's a new level of poaching for us. And it is indeed very daring."

In countries like China and Vietnam, rhino horns are promoted as curing agents for cancer, sexual problems and hangovers. The cost of a horn is $25,000 per pound.

According to the Associated Press report, despite the efforts to stem poaching, the ruthless activity will continue as Kenya's anti poaching laws are weak and antiquated.  

Four Chinese men were caught earlier this year in January for illegally smuggling ivory but they were fined just $400 each , there was no imprisonment. Unless stricter laws are imposed, nothing will deter these traffickers, according to conservationists.

Kenya's parliament plans on taking up a Wildlife Bill next month, which advocates long imprisonment and heavier fines for poaching.  They plan a minimum of 15 years of imprisonment

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are nearly 5,055 black rhinoceros and 20,405 white rhinoceros left in Africa.