South Africa records decline in rhino poaching

According to the country’s Forestry Ministry, 352 of the animals were poached nationwide in 2025, a decrease from 420 in 2024

South Africa recorded a 16% decline in rhino poaching in 2025, a sign that intensified anti-poaching and anti-trafficking measures are beginning to yield results, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Willie Aucamp has said.

From January to December 2025, 352 rhinos were poached nationwide, down from 420 in 2024.