More security sought for rhinos in Assam

Guwahati, Jan 16 (IANS) Wildlife groups called for enhanced security in Assam's Manas National Park Wednesday after a rhino was found dead this week.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare-Wildlife Trust of India (IFAW-WTI) sought more security as it is moving two more orphaned rhinos to the park from the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation near Kaziranga.

"This was the third rhino to be killed by poachers in Manas since 2006. The first case of poaching was reported in 2011 and another rhino was poached in 2012," a statement said.

"Security needs to be enhanced with effective patrolling by the park staff. There is also a need to strengthen information network by working in close coordination with local communities," it said.

A rhino was found dead in the park Monday with its horn removed.

The statement added that the rhino population in the park was wiped out between 1980 to the 1990s due to insurgency.

Five orphaned rhinos, rescued as calves from the Kaziranga National Park and hand-raised at CWRC, are currently in the Manas National Park.