Javan Rhinos on Population Decline: New Report Reveals Troubling Threats to Near-Extinct Species in Indonesia’s National Park

Javan rhinos, one of three critically endangered rhino species in the world, are facing a grim outcome due to a flawed counting methodology. According to a new report, these majestic creatures are on the path to extinction, despite being glorified as a symbol of Indonesian pride and conservation. The report highlights the importance of accurate population counts, and underscores the need for improved conservation efforts to prevent their extinction. Join us as we take a closer look at the disastrous consequences of a flawed count on the Javan rhino, and what can be done to save one of the planet’s most endangered animals.


The Javan rhinoceros, a critically endangered species found only in Ujung Kulon National Park in Indonesia, may be on the brink of extinction within a decade, warns a report by environmental non-governmental organization Auriga Nusantara. The report cites questionable practices in the Indonesian government’s official population count, which has shown steady growth since 2011. However, the official count includes rhinos that haven’t been seen or recorded on camera traps in years; at least three of these animals are known to have died since 2019. The report highlights a lack of official transparency, as conservation for other iconic species such as Sumatran rhinos and orangutans is also affected by this issue. The report also showed an increase in poaching activities in Ujung Kulon National Park, which may be caused by lax security and poachers shifting their attention from Sumatran rhinos due to their dearth across the Sunda Strait from Ujung Kulon. The Auriga report has raised concerns about the management of the park and the Javan rhinos, citing the need for a second habitat for the rhinos, which has been put on hold, as well as the urgency of addressing the issue of declining population.