A rhinoceros, often shortened to rhino, is a large, herbivorous mammal of the family Rhinocerotidae. They are known for their massive bodies, thick gray skin, and the prominent horn or horns on their snouts. There are five species of rhinoceros, all of which are native to Africa and Asia.
Physical Description
Rhinoceroses are one of the largest land animals on Earth. Their thick skin is arranged in folds, giving them a plated, armor-like appearance. The most defining feature of a rhinoceros is its horn, which is made of keratin, the same protein that makes up human hair and fingernails. Rhinos have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell and hearing.
Habitat and Diet
Rhinos are found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, grasslands, and tropical forests. Their diet is entirely plant-based. There is a key difference between the two main types of African rhinos:
- White Rhinos are grazers with a wide, square lip, which is perfect for eating grasses.
- Black Rhinos are browsers with a pointed, prehensile upper lip, which they use to grasp leaves, branches, and fruits from shrubs and trees.
Conservation
All five species of rhinoceros are considered to be threatened or endangered. The primary threats to their survival are poaching for their horns and habitat loss. Conservation efforts, including protected reserves and anti-poaching patrols, have been implemented to help protect the remaining wild populations.
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