Rare sumatran rhino born at sanctuary, inspiring hope for critically endangered species

A recent animal birth is inspiring people around the world: a newborn sumatran rhino, bringing hope to a rare and critically endangered species.

The Government of Indonesia recently announced that the calf, a female, was born at the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Way Kambas National Park on September 30.

The mother, Ratu, is reportedly doing well after the delivery.

Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry

“I was with Ratu as she was going into labor and can’t tell you how exciting it is to know the baby was delivered safely and is healthy,” Nina Fascione, executive director of the International Rhino Foundation, said in a press release. “Every rhino born at the SRS is critical to the future of this imperiled species.”

The sumatran rhino is a critically endangered species and the most-threatened species of rhino. They have been threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation and can now only be found in the Indonesian islands of Sumatra and Borneo, and there are fewer than 80 left in the world.

Given the rarity of the species, the birth is a huge deal and is being celebrated as a major moment for the sumatran rhino’s conservation.

“This is a happy news, not only for Indonesia but for the world,” environment minister Siti Nurbaya said in a statement.

“This little rhino will be an incredible ambassador for the Government of Indonesia’s successful conservation breeding program, and essential for the future of this species,” Fascione said. “This birth is welcome news for us all!”

This is the third baby for Ratu and her mate Andalas; they previously welcomed calves in 2012 and 2016. This is the third calf born at SRS — the last was born in March 2022: