As reported by the Way Kambas Rhino Protection Unit Based on tips by local villagers that live in the surrounding areas of Way Kambas National Park (WKNP), a group of Nibung wood (Oncosperma tigillarium) loggers inside of Way Kambas National Park. In response to this information, National Park authorities assembled a team consisting of Park Rangers…
The population of Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus) is being threatened by illegal hunting in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park (BBSNP). Rhino protection units (RPUs) started patrolling the area which have allowed for the sun bear to safely begin re-inhabiting the forest. RPUs also began raising awareness in the local communities about illegal hunting and it’s…
Reported by Heri Pasiman, Summarized by Hanif Muhammad An integral part of our work in Sumatra is gatehring intelligence to assist detection and prevention of illegal activity in the park. The Intelligence and Law Enforcement Unit (ILEU) supports the Rhino Protection Units (RPUs) collect critical information from local communities about illegal activity in the area…
After a rigorous interview process and intense training, the new RPU teams are ready to start patrolling Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park and Way Kambas National Park. The RPUs represent the front line in protection – not only for Sumatran rhinos, but for the numerous other endangered species living in the parks. The RPU teams…
The Sumatran rhino is the world’s most endangered rhino, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining only in Indonesia’s dense rainforests. Poaching for horn for traditional Asian medicine caused the initial decline of the species. Today, the populations are primarily threatened by small population effects such as inbreeding, human encroachment, the potential for catastrophic events, and…
Javan rhino calves offer new hope. They may be small, but their will to survive and thrive is mighty. Under the watchful eye of professional anti-poaching teams called Rhino Protection Units (RPUs), the Javan rhino population has grown from about 50 animals to more than 60 over the past five years. All of the world’s Javan rhinos live…
Written by Hanif Muhammed, IRF Indonesia Liaison Ever wondered what it takes to become a member of one of Indonesia’s Rhino Protection Units (RPUs)? Just like the job, the interview process is incredibly rigorous! To start, interested individuals fill out an extensive application. Leadership then selects candidates who are then interviewed and invited to participate…
