Nepal is overhauling the way it counts one-horned rhinos as authorities look to replace a decades-old survey approach. The current method involves teams entering forest areas on elephants to locate and record rhinos. Officials say the change aims to improve safety and reliability while generating better population data.
The move comes as Nepal’s rhino numbers improve after historic lows but remain under pressure. Reports note that the population rose sharply from roughly 100 rhinos in the 1960s, but that 133 rhinos have died in and around Chitwan National Park over the past five years. While different outlets emphasize the motivations and methods, they agree that the revised census is intended to strengthen monitoring amid ongoing threats.
The Kathmandu Post and Inquirer.net both describe potential upgrades using more scientific tools, including DNA sampling and camera traps. These technologies are expected to reduce reliance on direct sightings and help authorities estimate and track the rhino population more effectively during future surveys.
