Sumatran Rhino Facts
General Facts | |
Scientific Name: | Dicerorhinus sumatrensis |
Sub Species | |
Western Sumatran Rhino: | Dicerorhinus sumatrensis sumatrensis |
Eastern Sumatran Rhino (Bornean Rhino): | Dicerorhinus sumatrensis harrissoni |
Northern Sumatran Rhino (possibly extinct): | Dicerorhinus sumatrensis lasiotis |
Average Weight: | 600kg to 950kg |
Height at Shoulder: | 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 ft) |
Length (head & body): | 2 to 3 meters (6.5 to 9.5 ft) |
Front Horn Length: | 25cm to 78cm |
Rear Horn Length: | 7.5cm |
Lifespan: | 30 to 45 years |
Speed: | Up to 40km per hour (28mph) |
Social Behaviour: | Solitary |
IUCN conservation status: | Critically Endangered |
Reproduction | |
Gestation: | 15 to 16 months |
Birth intervals per calf: | 3 to 4 years |
Female sexual maturity: | 6 to 7 years |
Male sexual maturity: | 10 years |
Calves weaned: | 16 to 18 months |
Distribution | |
Range: | Indonesia and Malaysia |
Wild population: | 34-47 |
About the Sumatran Rhino
The Sumatran rhino (scientific name: Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) is one of the three rhino species found in Asia. Their population is said to have declined by about 50% since the late 1990’s. Their decline, like all other species of rhino, is due to poaching for their horn but the Sumatran rhino is also suffering due to loss of habitat. Their natural habitat is being destroyed and developed for palm oil plantations.
Unfortunately for the Sumatran rhino, their habitat is very close to China and Vietnam, destinations with a demand for rhino horn.
The Sumatran rhino is a browser and some of their favourite food is leaves, plant tips, twigs and fruits.
The Sumatran is the smallest and hairiest of all the surviving rhinos. It is said to be the closest living relative to the now extinct woolly rhino.