Rhino Poaching Crisis Update

From January to December 2024, 420 rhinos were poached in South Africa—320 on state properties and 100 on private reserves. While this marks a decrease from the 499 rhinos poached in 2023, the fight is far from over.

 

KwaZulu-Natal, the hardest-hit province, lost 232 rhinos in 2024, but this is a significant decline from 325 poached in 2023. The Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Dehorning Programme, funded by WWF and implemented from April to October 2024, played a major role in reducing losses, with monthly poaching incidents dropping from 35 in April to fewer than 10 between May and September. However, in October, poaching syndicates adapted and began targeting dehorned rhinos, leading to 27 rhinos poached in a single month. A swift response from the provincial anti-poaching team helped prevent further losses, contributing to a 67% decline in rhino poaching over eight months.

 

Unfortunately, we are now seeing intense pressure shift into the Kruger National Park and surrounding regions.Kruger National Park reported 88 rhinos poached in 2024, 10 more than in 2023. The most alarming trend emerged in December 2024 and January 2025, when poaching surged—21 rhinos killed in December and 17 more in January. This escalation is deeply concerning.

 

As poachers adapt, we must stay ahead. Support anti-poaching efforts, fund ranger teams, and raise awareness. Every effort counts in this fight to protect one of Africa’s most iconic species.

A Look at The Numbers

While these numbers show a decline from the peak in 2014, they don’t tell the full story.

The hardest-hit regions in South Africa have also lost population density, meaning fewer rhinos remain in areas where poaching was once highest. In some cases, declines in poaching aren’t due to success—but rather because there are simply fewer rhinos left to poach. It’s also important to remember that not all poaching-related deaths are counted in official statistics. Calves that die after their mothers are killed, rhinos that succumb to injuries despite treatment, and animals that are not properly reported all contribute to the true toll of poaching. This crisis is not over, but there are major trends of success in multiple fronts in wildlife conservation and protection. The need for funding, ranger support, and long-term conservation strategies continues to be vital.

A Call to Action

As poachers adapt, we must stay ahead. Support anti-poaching efforts, fund ranger teams, and raise awareness. Every effort counts in this fight to protect one of Africa’s most iconic species. 

 

Mike Veale, Founder of Global Conservation Force, shares:

 

“We’re seeing positive movement in rhino conservation across the industry, with multiple groups and efforts making a real impact. However, the reality remains—protecting rhinos is a dynamic and truly difficult task. It’s an expensive and relentless effort, but one that goes beyond just saving a species; it safeguards entire ecosystems and the biodiversity that depends on them. Many ranger teams are still operating with basic setups, skills, and infrastructure, all while facing highly organized poaching syndicates. The need is huge, with teams having extensive wishlists for essential gear, training, and resources. Continued support is critical to ensuring long-term success.”

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GCF's Impact in KwaZulu-Natal and Kruger National Park:

Global Conservation Force is actively working to combat poaching and protect rhinos in KwaZulu-Natal and Kruger National Park, including its surrounding boundaries and borders, through multiple initiatives:

  • Response K9 Unit on Manyoni Game Reserve

  • K9 teams protecting the Zululand Rhino Orphanage

  • Advanced ranger training programs supporting over 500 rangers in the field

  • Funding programs for the Zululand Conservation Trust

  • Awareness and ethical safari programs with GCF Ambassador Blake Moynes

  • Collaborating with 8 primary anti-poaching units in Kruger and surrounding areas

  • Targeted K9 operations, intelligence gathering, patrols, and specialist joint operations

  • Funding and community-based efforts to strengthen conservation resilience

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