Most of the world's rhinoceros populations are concen- trated in six range states: Kenya, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe in Africa; and India and Nepal in Asia. The White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum) and the Black Rhino (Diceras bicomis) inhabit the woodland and the Savannah in sub-Saharan Africa. Populations of the Southern White Rhino (Cs simum) have increased from 6,780 in 1993-94 to 7,530 in 1995. But only 27-30 animals of the Northern White Rhino sub-species (Cs cottoni), found only in Zaire, remain in the wild. Since 1992, Black Rhino populations have remained stable at approximately 2,400. Increases in South Africa and Namibia were balanced by losses in other range states. The condition of the western sub- species of Black Rhino (D b longpipes) is critical: there are only 15 animals remaining, in Cameroon.

A recent study of the status of White Rhinos in South Africa revealed that since 1994, their numbers have increased from around 1,200 to about 1,475 in at least 144 populations on private lands. The number of White Rhinos on state fends remain unchanged. With many state lands close to maximum carrying capacity, increase in their populations depends on what incentives are given to landowners. Meanwhile, African range states have taken drastic measures to keep their populations safe. Zimbabwe has a 'shoot-to-kill' policy against poachers. Kenya maintains a 24-hour armed guard on patrol. Namibia, Swaziland and Zimbabwe have undertaken clehorning programmes with their Black Rhinos, which have reportedly been successful in curbing poaching.

In Asia, the Javan (R sondaicus) and the Sumatran (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) rhinos are on the brink of extinction. Although populations of the Greater One- horned Rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) are increasing in India and Nepal, recent reports indicate that the illegal trade in rhino horn has pushed poaching to new limits. As many as 692 rhinos were poached in India between 1980- 1993, and another 209 in the next three years.