Black Rhinoceros Declared Extinct in Ethiopia - Ethiopian Wildlife Service

Black Rhinoceros Declared Extinct in Ethiopia -

Ethiopian Wildlife Service The black rhinoceros (also known as the black rhinoceros, scientifically Diceros bicornis) has been declared extinct. While many wild animals have been saved from extinction over the past 60 years, some species, such as numerous insect species, have become completely extinct, the agency announced. The black rhinoceros was once found in parts of Ethiopia, primarily: in the north and southeast (subspecies D. b. brucii, which is considered extinct) and in the southwest (border regions with Uganda and Kenya, subspecies D. b. michaeli or related forms). There were historical populations until the mid-20th century, but intensive poaching (especially for its horns), habitat loss, and conflicts with the local population led to its disappearance decades ago. The current status (as of 2025/2026) is as follows: According to the IUCN and current surveys (e.g., International Rhino Foundation 2025), Ethiopia is no longer among the countries with living populations. The black rhinoceros is globally critically endangered, but the total population in Africa has recovered slightly to approximately 6,788 animals (as of the end of 2024/2025). The strongest populations are now concentrated in: Namibia (largest wild population) South Africa Kenya Zimbabwe Tanzania smaller populations in Botswana, Zambia, Eswatini, etc. There are no longer any confirmed sightings or conservation programs for wild black rhinoceroses in Ethiopia. Some sources still list the country as having a historical range, but not a current one. However, thanks to increased public awareness and intensified government efforts, encouraging progress is now being made in solving the remaining problems, according to Ato Kumara, Director-General of the Ethiopian Conservation Agency.