**South African scientists have developed a groundbreaking method that involves injecting rhino horns with a non-harmful radioactive substance to curb the illegal trade of rhino horns.**
**Radioactive Rhino Horns: A Bold Move Against Poaching in South Africa**
**Radioactive Rhino Horns: A Bold Move Against Poaching in South Africa**
**New anti-poaching initiative employs innovative technology to combat wildlife crime**
In a pioneering effort to combat rhino poaching, researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa have introduced a unique strategy: injecting the horns of rhinos with a harmless radioactive material. This initiative, known as the Rhisotope Project, aims to help customs officers identify smuggled horns during their transportation worldwide. With South Africa housing the largest rhino population, the dire situation has seen hundreds of these majestic animals fall victim to poachers each year.
The Rhisotope Project, which took six years of research and cost approximately £220,000 ($290,000), has made significant strides. Prof. James Larkin, a key player in the project, revealed that poaching remains a pressing issue, with at least one rhino being killed daily. He emphasized the necessity for proactive measures, stating, “this is a significant tool to help reduce the numbers of poaching.”
The findings from a pilot study involving 20 rhinos confirmed that the radioactive substance poses no harm to the animals. Furthermore, the researchers, who collaborated with the International Atomic Energy Agency, have proven that this technology allows for the detection of horns even within large shipping containers.
Rhino advocate Jamie Joseph praised the project as an innovative and essential measure, but cautioned it is not a final solution. "Only better legislation and political will can truly bring an end to the rhino crisis," she asserted, advocating for a multifaceted approach to tackle illegal wildlife trade.
Indeed, since 2021, more than 400 rhinos have been poached annually in South Africa, according to the conservation charity Save the Rhino. Jessica Babich, head of the Rhisotope Project, stated the initiative's aim to widely deploy this advanced technology. "By doing so, we safeguard not just rhinos but a vital part of our natural heritage," Babich noted.
The valuable horns are primarily shipped to Asian markets for use in traditional medicine and are often regarded as status symbols. Conservation efforts are critical as both white and black rhinos face severe threats, with black rhinos classified as critically endangered.
