Rhino relocation begins in Chitwan National Park

February 1, 2025
2 MIN READ
Rhino/File photo for representation
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CHITWAN: Chitwan National Park has commenced the relocation of rhinos within the park starting today.

Due to an increase in the rhino population in the park’s western region, four rhinos will be moved to the eastern area.

A study conducted a few years ago assessed the need and feasibility of relocating rhinos within the park.

However, the actual relocation process only began last year, with six rhinos already successfully moved.

Dr. Ganesh Pant, the park’s Chief Conservation Officer, confirmed that all necessary preparations for the relocation have been completed. A technical team is now preparing to move the rhinos from the Amaltari sector.

The relocation will involve the park’s elephants, technical staff, employees, and security personnel from the army.

Two male and two female rhinos will be relocated. A study team from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation had found that 60 percent of the rhinos are located in the western region, and relocating them would provide a more suitable habitat. The relocation process is expected to take about two weeks.

According to park information officer Abinash Thapa Magar, this move is also expected to aid in rhino reproduction.

Three years ago, a study team led by Deputy Director General Bed Kumar Dhakal was formed to evaluate the relocation process.

The most recent census reports that there are 752 rhinos in Nepal, with 694 located in Chitwan National Park, 38 in Bardiya, 17 in Shuklaphanta, and three in Parsa National Park.