Sumatran Rhinoceros
Dicerorhinus sumatrensis
Overview
The Sumatran rhinoceros, also known as the Sumatran rhino, hairy rhinoceros or Asian two-horned rhinoceros, is a rare member of the family Rhinocerotidae and one of five extant species of rhinoceros; it is the only extant species of the genus Dicerorhinus. It is the smallest rhinoceros, although it is still a large mammal; it stands 112–145 cm (44–57 in) high at the shoulder, with a head-and-body length of 2.36–3.18 m and a tail of 35–70 cm (14–28 in). The weight is reported to range from 500–1,000 kg (1,100–2,200 lb), averaging 700–800 kg (1,540–1,760 lb).
Like both African species, it has two horns; the larger is the nasal horn, typically 15–25 cm (5.9–9.8 in), while the other horn is typically a stub. A coat of reddish-brown hair covers most of the Sumatran rhino's body.
The Sumatran rhinoceros faces imminent extinction due to severe population fragmentation and extremely low numbers, with fewer than 80 individuals remaining across isolated forest patches. Poaching for horn and traditional medicine continues despite protection efforts, while habitat conversion for palm oil plantations and logging has eliminated vast areas of suitable forest. The species' naturally low reproductive rate, combined with difficulty finding mates across fragmented populations, creates an extinction vortex that threatens the survival of remaining subpopulations.
Habitat
Sumatran rhinoceros inhabit dense tropical rainforests, preferring primary and secondary forests with thick canopy cover and abundant understory vegetation. They require large territories with access to mud wallows, salt licks, and diverse plant species for browsing, typically found in mountainous and hilly terrain up to 1,500 meters elevation.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in RHINOCEROTIDAE
Threatened in Bangladesh
Frequently asked questions
Why is Sumatran Rhinoceros classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Sumatran Rhinoceros live?
What are the main threats to Sumatran Rhinoceros?
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