The trade in rhino horn is currently banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)1. While rhino horns can be humanely harvested and they do grow back, the legality of cutting rhino horn is complex and varies by country23.
In some arguments, it’s suggested that a legal trade could potentially help save rhinos from poaching by satisfying the demand with a controlled supply1. However, there are concerns that legalizing rhino horn trade could further fuel demand and make it difficult to distinguish between legally obtained horns and those acquired through illegal poaching2.
It’s important to note that while the horn can be removed without harming the animal, the practice of dehorning rhinos is generally carried out by conservationists and wildlife managers in specific circumstances to protect the animals from poachers3. Any such activity would need to be strictly regulated and monitored to ensure the safety and conservation of the species.
The trade in rhino horn is currently banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)1. While rhino horns can be humanely harvested and they do grow back, the legality of cutting rhino horn is complex and varies by country23.
In some arguments, it’s suggested that a legal trade could potentially help save rhinos from poaching by satisfying the demand with a controlled supply1. However, there are concerns that legalizing rhino horn trade could further fuel demand and make it difficult to distinguish between legally obtained horns and those acquired through illegal poaching2.
It’s important to note that while the horn can be removed without harming the animal, the practice of dehorning rhinos is generally carried out by conservationists and wildlife managers in specific circumstances to protect the animals from poachers3. Any such activity would need to be strictly regulated and monitored to ensure the safety and conservation of the species.
