SA rhino population up 5% in 2025, but 230 poached in 2026

South Africa's rhino population rose nearly 5% in 2025 due to conservation and translocation, yet 230 rhinos were killed by poachers in the first eight months of 2026. The poaching rate remains a persistent threat, though the population increase suggests conservation efforts are having some effect. This matters for biodiversity and wildlife crime trends in the region.