The illegal slaughter of rhinos in South Africa surged to a record high last year with a final death toll of 448, official figures show. The total, representing one rhino lost nearly every 20 hours, marked a significant increase on 2010 and suggested the country was still losing its war against poachers. Two suspected poachers were killed in a shootout at the world renowned Kruger national park on the night of January 18 after the gruesome discovery of eight rhino carcasses — an unprecedented one-day toll.

There has been a steady increase in rhino deaths through poaching in recent years. In 2010, the number killed was 333; in 2007, it was just 13. Campaigners warn that, if the trend continues, the animal’s future could be in jeopardy. The 2011 toll includes 19 critically endangered black rhinos, of which fewer than 5,000 remain in the wild.

Andrew McVey, Species Program Manager at WWF-UK, said, “If left unchecked, poaching gangs could put the survival of these iconic species in jeopardy.” The carnage is driven by increased demand for rhino horn in Asia, particularly Vietnam, where it carries prestige as a luxury item, a post-partying cleanser and based on false science, a cure for cancer. Tom Milliken, rhino trade expert at Traffic, the wildlife trade monitoring network, said, “Rhino horn has gained popularity among wealthy

Vietnamese elites and business people to give as a gift, when currying political favor, or taken as an antidote to over-indulgence. But killing endangered rhinos to mitigate a hangover is a criminal way to see in the New Year.” 

Poaching gangs have become increasingly sophisticated, using helicopters, silent tranquilizers, body armor, night-vision equipment and mercenaries experienced in rhino tracking. There are rumors of collusion by some park rangers and owners seeking to cash in. The rise continues unabated, despite increased law enforcement efforts. South African officials made 232 poaching-related arrests in 2011, compared to 165 the previous year. Sentences imposed for rhino crimes have also increased, with poachers and horn smugglers receiving as long as 16 years in prison.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has ruled that Vietnam needs to show progress in curtailing illegal trade in rhino parts.