More than 1,000 rhinos killed by poachers in South Africa last year

The South African government has revealed the number of rhinos illegally killed last year, suggesting measures to reduce poaching have had limited success.

A total of 1,028 rhino were poached from 1 January to 31 December 2017, compared to 1,054 in the same period for 2016, "representing a decrease of 26 animals”, the independent reports, citing a statement by the environment ministry.

The figures came as a disappointment to conservationists.

“News of the reduction in numbers of rhinos killed illegally in South Africa for the third consecutive year is encouraging. However, the numbers are still far too high,” said Margaret Kinnaird, WWF wildlife practice leader.

There are estimated to be around 30,000 rhinos of all five rhino species surviving in the wild, and South Africa is home to the vast majority of the world’s rhino population.

The South African government has made efforts to combat poaching, using patrols and electronic surveillance to monitor areas inhabited by rhinos. 

Though the Kruger National Park, one of the continent’s largest games reserves, still endured extensive rhino poaching, nearly 25 per cent fewer rhinos were killed there than in 2016.