The western black rhinoceros, once a magnificent symbol of strength and resilience, is now tragically extinct. This subspecies of the black rhino roamed the savannahs and bushlands of western Africa, feeding on a variety of shrubs and plants. With its two distinctive horns and robust frame, the western black rhino was an impressive sight.
These rhinos were solitary and territorial, often marking their areas with dung piles and tree scratches. Despite their formidable size and thick skin, they were vulnerable to poaching for their horns, which were highly prized in traditional medicine and as status symbols. Habitat loss further contributed to their decline, and by 2011, they were declared extinct.
The story of the western black rhinoceros serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of human actions. Efforts to protect remaining rhino species are critical to ensuring that other subspecies do not share the same fate.