News of the local extinction of the Javan Rhinoceros in Malaysia
According to one of Malaysia’s largest online news sources, the Javan Rhinoceros is now extinct. Deputy Natural Resources and Environment Minister Datuk Dr. Hamim Samuri said that according to the latest record of wildlife in Malaysia, the last remaining member of Rhinoceros Sondaicus, has failed to be recorded in the wild in over 7 years. There remains a small population of approximately 60+ members in the Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, Indonesia.
Dr. Samuri made the announcement at the Biodiversity Seminar 2017 on November 22, 2o17. The extinction comes as a result of illegal poaching, hunting, habitat loss, and traffic accidents. He said, “From the latest Malaysia wildlife list records, Javan Rhino are extinct, while four other animals, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Malayan Tiger, Sunda Pangolin and Gaur (Indian Bison) are considered critical (critically endangered) species.”
Datuk Dr. Hamim added that in 2010, the Department of Forestry had recorded three species of Javan Rhino but this year the species failed to be tracked and recorded. Monitoring conducted by various methods, including camera installation and habitat patrols.
Samuri adds “Our wildlife is facing various threats due to the reduction of habitats and areas due to deforestation. In addition to habitat loss, wildlife populations have also declined mainly for tigers and elephants following wildlife hunting and illegal trade activities that are currently high on the black market.”
Additional Source: http://www.pressreader.com/malaysia/the-borneo-post-sabah/20171122/281865823774288
Image of Javan Rhinoceros, credit to Animal Corner
Image of Wildlife Officer tracking the Javan Rhinoceros, credit to IIP Photo Archive