A Remedy for Superstition

February 22, 2023 – Almost Nowhere

My only regret about our trip to Africa is that we never saw a Rhinoceros, few people ever will.

This big empty space is where they once lived.

The misconception that rhinoceros’ horn has medicinal or talismanic properties has reduced rhino populations to the brink of extinction. In many Asian countries, Vietnam, and China in particular, rhinoceros horn powder is believed to possess healing qualities. Ground horn is sold at extremely high prices, as a cure for disease, an aphrodisiac, a poison remedy, and to purify water.

Dagger handles made of rhino horn are a status symbol in Yemen. Men who possess horn-handled weapons are considered more likely to be victorious in battle

Demand for Rhinoceros horn has spawned a widespread poaching market. 500 to 1000 animals are slaughtered illegally each year, with an average-sized horn fetching as much as US$250,000 on the black market. Poaching has reduced the population of Black Rhinos to less than 5,000.

There were no rhinos on the wildlife reserves we visited in South Africa, Zimbabwe, or Botswana. There are a few rhinos on other reserves, but areas where the population exists have been declared war zones. Conservation officers in protected areas have authority to shoot-to-kill poachers on sight.

To encounter a rhinoceros, would be to enter a battlefield.

Toenail Clippings

What would you do if someone suggested you eat a mixture of hair and nail clippings?

Thought so!

Rhinoceros horn consists of fibrous proteins, similar to hair or fingernails. It doesn’t cure anything, it won’t make anyone stronger in battle, and it doesn’t improve libido.

And yet, the march toward extinction continues. Rhinoceros are killed at a rate of approximately two per day, despite the fact that the medicinal value of rhino horn has been scientifically proven to be roughly the equivalent of toenail clippings.

Conservation and anti-poaching initiatives have stabilized the decline, but the species remains critically endangered. In an area where poverty is widespread, the financial incentive is too great. Poachers are willing to take the risk of being killed, to feed themselves and provide for their families.

In the march toward Rhinoceros extinction, the solution lies not on stronger anti-poaching initiatives or more rigorous penalties.