South African scientists inject rhino horns to deter poachers

South African scientists reported that they injected non-toxic radioactive material into the horns of twenty living rhinos. This is how they want to combat the serious problem of poaching. The radioactive horns are meant to protect the animals.

Scientists from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, came up with a rather unusual idea to save local rhinos from poachers. Two non-toxic radioactive isotopes were injected into the animals' horns to protect their lives.

Prof. James Larkin, director of the radiation and health physics unit at the University of the Witwatersrand, indicated in an interview with AFP that he had placed "two tiny little radioactive chips in the horn." The radioactive material "renders the horn useless... essentially poisonous for human consumption," added Nithaya Chetty, professor and dean of science at the same university, quoted by the portal sciencealert.com.

Larkin emphasized that "every injection was strictly monitored by experienced veterinarians and every effort was made to prevent any harm to the animals."

Scientists assured that during the procedure, the rhinos did not feel pain. The dose of radioactive material is also small enough that it poses no threat to the animal. It is also not dangerous to the environment.

In February, the environment ministry reported that despite government efforts to combat illegal trade, 499 giant mammals were killed, mainly in national parks, in 2023. This represents an 11 percent increase compared to the data for 2022. Twenty living rhinos will be part of the pilot Rhisotope project, during which they will be given an isotope dose that is "strong enough to activate detectors installed worldwide."

Scientists remind us that these detectors are installed "to prevent nuclear terrorism" at international border posts. They also point out that border officers have hand-held radiation detectors that can detect contraband, in addition to the thousands of radiation detectors installed at ports and airports.

Rhino horns are highly sought after on the black market, where the price per weight is comparable to the price of gold and cocaine. Arrie Van Deventera, an orphanage founder, noted that cutting off the rhino horns has not deterred poachers.

Maybe this will stop poaching. This is the best idea I have ever heard – said a tall, slender conservation activist.

After the process, the team took blood samples from the rhinos to ensure their health. The material placed on the horn is expected to last for five years. If the project proves successful, scientists plan to extend it to more individuals.