Mongabay · Climate & nature

Javan Rhinos Safe After Indonesian Volcano Eruption, But Single Habitat Remains a Major Risk

Indonesia's critically endangered Javan rhinos appear to have survived a recent volcanic eruption near their only remaining habitat, underscoring the species' extreme vulnerability.

The Javan rhinos in Ujung Kulon National Park were minimally affected by vibrations and noise from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which is located about 50 kilometers away. Park rangers reported the rhinos appeared safe.

The exact number of Javan rhinos is debated, with estimates ranging from around 50 to 100. Past official counts have faced scrutiny for potentially overstating the population, raising concerns about conservation accuracy.

The species' confinement to a single national park makes it highly susceptible to threats like natural disasters. A 2018 tsunami in the area killed one rhino, highlighting this risk.

Conservationists have long advocated for establishing a second habitat to reduce the risk of extinction from a single event. Previous attempts to find a suitable alternative site have faced challenges.

Efforts to manage the population, such as moving individual rhinos to new areas within the park, have also proven risky. The first such translocation resulted in the death of a male rhino due to health complications.

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