The only land mammals larger than rhinoceros are the African and Indian elephants. Restricted to Asia and Africa, the five remaining rhinoceros species are among the most critically endangered mammals on the planet. A 2013 population census counted fewer than 30,000 wild individuals. A sub-species of the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) has the dubious distinction of having the fewest living representatives. The remaining 6 northern white rhino’s is heavily protected, some of which have had their horns filed down. As a species, the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) has the largest global population of all rhinos, however their horn continues to be a tempting lure for poachers. While Africa’s combined rhino population consists of nearly 26,000 animals, Asia now has less than 3500. The Sumatran rhinoceros population is believed to be consist of nearly 100 individuals, while the Javan rhino is approaching global extinction with its meager population of 35-45 animals.
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