South Africa’s Environment Ministry reported on February 1, 2021, that rhino poaching in national parks decreased by 33% in 2020, with 394 rhinos killed compared to 594 in 2019.
The decline was partly attributed to Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, which limited poacher mobility, particularly during the strict lockdown period.
Environment Minister Barbara Creecy noted a “significant reduction in poacher incursions” in Kruger National Park, where poaching activities dropped 21.9% from 2,014 in 2019 to 1,573 in 2020. However, a spike in poaching occurred toward year-end, especially in December, as restrictions eased.
Kruger National Park: Poaching Epicenter
Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest reserve and a major tourist destination bordering Mozambique, accounted for 245 of the 394 rhinos poached in 2020, with two additional killings in Marakele National Park.
Despite the reduction, Kruger remains a focal point of poaching due to its large rhino population, estimated at 3,529 white rhinos and 268 black rhinos in 2021, down 60% since 2013.
Broader Trends and Anti-Poaching Efforts
South Africa, home to nearly 80% of the world’s rhinos (approximately 17,464 white and 6,421 black rhinos in 2024), has seen a consistent decline in poaching since its peak of 1,215 deaths in 2015.
Coordinated efforts with neighboring countries, increased arrests (414 in 2016, 502 in 2017), and higher conviction rates have contributed to this trend. Creecy highlighted major arrests and collaborative anti-poaching initiatives as key factors.
However, challenges persist, including corruption within ranger forces and the ongoing demand for rhino horn in Asia, particularly Vietnam and China.
Impact and Future Outlook
The 2020 lockdown provided a temporary reprieve, but the year-end poaching surge underscores the persistent threat.
While dehorning and surveillance technologies have helped, Kruger’s rhino population has plummeted 67% from 10,621 in 2011 to 3,529 in 2021, outpacing birth rates.
The Environment Ministry and conservation groups stress the need for sustained international cooperation and stronger enforcement to combat organized crime networks driving the illegal rhino horn trade.
