Curse of the Rhinoceros

The world rhinoceros population has plummeted more than 90% in just the last four decades. Why? Because traditional Asian medicine considers ground up rhino horn a cure.  Even worse, young arab males in places like Yemen and Oman traditionally carry a dagger as part of their ceremonial dress. The highest prestige goes to those who have a dagger with a handle made of rhinoceros horn, and they have proven willing to pay a fortune to have one.  When humans are willing to pay any price for an ornament that makes them feel whole - even a few people - the pressure on the world's remaining rhinos is untenable. 

A horn from one of these hulking creatures can go for as much as a quarter million dollars on the black market.  It's no wonder rhinos are in such deep trouble.