Rhisotope Project: A Radiant Fight Against Rhino Poaching

A South African university has initiated the Rhisotope Project, injecting radioactive isotopes into rhino horns to combat poaching. This innovative approach, deemed safe and detectable by customs, aims to deter illegal trade by enabling the easier identification of rhino horns at international borders.

A university in South Africa has unveiled a groundbreaking anti-poaching initiative involving the injection of radioactive isotopes into rhino horns. Dubbed the Rhisotope Project, this effort brings together experts from the University of the Witwatersrand, nuclear energy officials, and conservationists.

Initial trials at a sanctuary revealed positive results, convincing the university to expand the campaign. Researchers involved in the project have assured the safety of this method, stating it does not harm the rhinos while effectively making the horns detectable by radiation detectors at airports and borders.

South Africa, home to the majority of the world's rhinos but plagued by severe poaching, is optimistic about this innovation. With the rhino population dwindling due to illegal horn markets, authorities are encouraging wildlife park owners to participate in this project to protect their rhinos.

(With inputs from agencies.)