Black rhinoceros | Everything You Need to Know
Table of contents
Introduction
Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) is one of Africa’s most iconic and endangered species, known for its distinct prehensile upper lip and impressive horns.
Once widespread across the continent, its population has drastically declined due to poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.
Today, black rhinos are found in scattered regions across eastern and southern Africa, primarily in protected areas. Despite their critical status, conservation efforts are helping to stabilize their numbers.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the black rhino, from its habitat and diet to its role in the ecosystem and ongoing conservation challenges.
Weight: 2,000- 3080lb (900-1,400kg)
Height: 5ft 6in – 5ft 8in (1.6 -1.7m)
Length: 10ft 6in – 11ft (3.2-3.4m)
Gestation: 15-16 Months
Young: 1
Lifespan: 30-40 years
Identification
Unmistakable, Prehistoric Looking Creature with two horned head. The front horn measures 20-30in (50-70cm), Occasionally Over 40in (102cm); the rear horn measures 13-16in (33-40cm) occasionally over 20in (50cm). Males have a shorter, thicker front horn than females.
Rhino horn is composed of a tightly packed, fibrous protein called keratin (also found in skin, nails and hooves), which grows from the skin but is unattached to the skull.
Black rhinos have three hoofed toes on each foot and a pointed prehensile upper lip adapted for browsing. The spoor or footprint is rounded at the back, whereas that of the white rhino is sharply indented. Black rhinos are noticeably smaller than white rhinos.
Powdered Rhino horn has for centuries been used as a medicine in Asia and the far East, and is considered to have almost supernatural healing powers for wide variety of illnesses.
Since the 1970s more than 40% of rhino horn has been imported into Northern Yemen to be carved as handles for the daggers which are prized symbols of manhood there This has greatly contributed to the wholesale slaughter of rhinos throughout their range.
It estimated that there were 65,000 black rhinos In the 1960s. The African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG) of the IUCN’s Species Survival Commission (SSC) released a report in 2022. The African and Asian Rhinoceroses – Status, Conservation and Trade, which estimates there are currently 22,137 rhinos in Africa: 6,195 black rhinos and 15,942 white rhinos.
Black rhino Population
The black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis), once numbering around 100,000 in the early 20th century, faced a dramatic decline due to poaching and habitat loss. By 1995, their population had dropped to about 2,410, a 96% decrease. Thanks to conservation efforts, black rhino numbers have risen gradually, with over 6,400 individuals today.
Despite the positive trend, black rhinos remain Critically Endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with poaching still posing a significant threat. In Tanzania, black rhinos are primarily found in protected areas such as Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. While exact numbers are not disclosed for security reasons, conservation initiatives aim to protect and increase Tanzania’s black rhino population.
Although overall black rhino numbers are increasing, some subspecies have not been as fortunate. The western black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis Longipes) was declared extinct in 2011, highlighting the need for continued conservation efforts.
Black Rhino Classification
| Rank | Taxonomic Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia (Animals) |
| Phylum | Chordata (Animals with a spinal cord) |
| Class | Mammalia (Mammals) |
| Order | Perissodactyla (Odd-toed ungulates) |
| Family | Rhinocerotidae (Rhinoceroses) |
| Genus | Diceros (Two-horned rhinos) |
| Species | Diceros bicornis (Black rhinoceros) |
The black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) belongs to the family Rhinocerotidae, which includes all modern rhinoceros species. These species are known for their large size, herbivorous diet, and presence of one or two horns. The order Perissodactyla, which also includes horses and tapirs, features species with an odd number of toes and specialized digestive systems for processing fibrous plant material.
Habitat of the Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)
The black rhino lives in diverse habitats across eastern and southern Africa. It prefers areas with plenty of shrubs, trees, and water sources. These habitats include savannas, scrublands, dry forests, and semi-arid regions.
Savannas and Grasslands
Black rhinos thrive in open grasslands with scattered trees. These areas provide the shrubs and foliage they eat.
Scrublands and Bushlands
Thorny shrubs and dense bushes are perfect for their browsing needs. These habitats also offer protection and shade.
Dry Forests and Woodlands
Black rhinos live in forests with a mix of trees and open patches. They rely on these areas for food and shelter.
Semi-Arid Regions
They can survive in dry areas by eating moisture-rich plants. This adaptation helps them thrive even in harsh environments.
Key Habitat Features
Food: Shrubs, twigs, and small trees are their main diet.
Water: Black rhinos need water for drinking and mud wallowing.
Shelter: Dense vegetation Provides protection from predators and the sun.
Reproduction Of Black rhinoceros
There is peak in breeding activity during the rainy season. Females usually have their first calf when they are about six-year-old. It is not uncommon for a number of males to congregate around an estrus female and seriously fighting may take place as the bulls compete for the chance to mate. Generally the largest bull ends up asserting his dominance.
Calves weigh up to 100lb (45kg) at birth, gain their feet after ten minutes or so and can walk within three hours. They stay with their mother until next calf is born (two to four years).
At this point the older calf is usually driven away, but often returns later or is temporary adopted by another female, males mature at 10-12 years of age.
Predation
Their large size means adult Rhinos are generally immune to predation. but crocodiles may pose a danger to a rhino crossing a river. lions and hyaenas occasionally kill young rhinos. but females can horn and kill predators in defense of their young.
Facts About the Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)
The black rhino has a pointed, prehensile upper lip to grasp leaves and twigs while browsing.
They weigh between 800–1,400 kg (1,760–3,080 lbs) and stand 1.4–1.7 meters (4.5–5.5 feet) tall at the shoulder
Black rhinos are found in savannas, scrublands, dry forests, and semi-arid regions across eastern and southern Africa
Despite their size, they can run up to 55 km/h (34 mph).
The black rhino is listed as Critically Endangered due to poaching and habitat loss.
They are browsers, feeding on leaves, twigs, and shrubs.
Black rhinos have two horns, with the front horn being larger.
Black rhinos are solitary and mark their territory using dung and urine.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)
The black rhino is a herbivore and a browser, feeding on leaves, twigs, bark, and shrubs. It uses its prehensile upper lip to grasp and pull vegetation.
Black rhinos are found in countries across eastern and southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. They live in a variety of habitats, such as savannas, scrublands, and dry forests.
Despite their large size, black rhinos can run up to 55 km/h (34 mph) over short distances.
Yes, black rhinos are critically endangered. Their population has declined due to habitat loss, poaching for their horns, and human-wildlife conflict.
