Conservationists are happy after a rise in the numbers of African black rhinos. The rhinos had been poached to a level of near extinction. Efforts to protect them have worked. Black rhinos are still endangered and are at risk of extinction. Conservationists are hopeful their numbers will keep growing. The International Union for Conservation of Nature reported that there were 4,845 black rhinos in Africa in 2012. This number rose to 5,630 in 2018. This is an increase of 2.5 per cent per year over six years. The Union said the increase is a good sign for saving the species.
Big efforts have been made to save the black rhino. These include relocating them to areas with fewer poachers, ensuring a better male-to-female ratio to aid reproduction, and stronger laws to protect them. The Union said: "The continued slow recovery is a testament to the immense efforts made...and a powerful reminder that conservation works." It added: "There is no room for complacency as poaching and illegal trade remain acute threats. It is essential that the ongoing anti-poaching measures and intensive, proactive population management continue."