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South Africa's Rhisotope Project Battles Rhino Poaching

8/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Rhisotope Project in South Africa is a groundbreaking initiative fighting rhino poaching by injecting radioactive isotopes into their horns, making them detectable at borders. Launched in 2021, this innovative approach has proven safe for rhinos and holds promise for other endangered species, as the country grapples with the loss of around 500 rhinos each year.

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Story summary

The Rhisotope Project in South Africa is a groundbreaking initiative fighting rhino poaching by injecting radioactive isotopes into their horns, making them detectable at borders. Launched in 2021, this innovative approach has proven safe for rhinos and holds promise for other endangered species, as the country grapples with the loss of around 500 rhinos each year.