Javan rhinos survive eruption in Indonesia, but single habitat leaves species vulnerable

Indonesia's critically endangered Javan rhinos seem to have survived the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which began on September 4 near their sole remaining habitat. Ardi Andono, head of Ujung Kulon National Park, confirmed that the rhinos' habitat had been only minimally affected by the volcanic activity. The park, located on Java's southwestern tip, is home to the only wild population of Javan rhinoceroses.

Despite the eruption sending ash across parts of Java and Sumatra, causing disruptions to air travel and halting some schools and fishing activities, Ardi stated that the rhinos remained safe and were still appearing normal. Rangers in the park continue to monitor the animals. The exact number of Javan rhinos in the wild is unclear, with estimates ranging from around 50 by conservation group Save the Rhino to between 87 and 100 by Indonesia's forestry ministry.

However, a 2023 investigation by Indonesian environmental group Auriga Nusantara raised questions about the accuracy of these figures, as it was found that some rhinos not seen by camera traps for years, including those later confirmed dead, were still included in the official counts. This discrepancy is concerning given the species' limited range to Ujung Kulon National Park.