Scientists in South Africa make rhino horns radioactive to help anti-poaching effort
Summary
A South African university started a project to inject rhino horns with harmless radioactive material to stop poaching. This method aims to help customs agents detect illegal rhino horn trade using radiation detectors. The project involves experts and has shown positive results in initial tests.Key Facts
- A South African university is leading a new anti-poaching project called the Rhisotope Project.
- Rhino horns are being injected with radioactive isotopes, which are safe for the animals.
- These isotopes can help customs officials detect horns at airports and borders using radiation detectors.
- Five rhinos have been injected so far, with plans to expand the project.
- The tests showed that even low levels of radioactivity can alert detectors.
- South Africa hosts about 16,000 rhinos but faces high poaching rates, with 500 rhinos killed annually.
- The global rhino population has dwindled to about 27,000 from 500,000 in the early 1900s.
- The project encourages wildlife parks and conservation groups to participate.
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