Problem 2: Optimal strategy for the conservation of the white rhinoceros population in South
Africa
Presenter: Ashleigh Hutchinson, School of Computational and Applied Mathematics, University of
the Witwatersrand
Problem statement
Illegal poaching of rhinos is a common occurrence due to the high demand for rhino horn in East
Asia. As a result, the rhino population has decreased substantially. Strategies such as dehorning live
animals have been practised in order to prevent poaching. However, these strategies have not been
successful in eliminating poaching. Other strategies focus on increasing the rhino population to
counteract the losses due to poaching. One such strategy, known as the translocation strategy,
which involves the relocation of rhinos from one area to another, has been investigated. When
implemented correctly, translocation of rhinos can aid in the genetic diversity of population groups
which results in an increased growth rate. Furthermore, translocation may also even assist in
increased protection of the rhinos leading to a decrease in poaching. The goal of this study group is
to implement population and economic models to investigate optimal translocation strategies that
decrease poaching but also assist in increasing the rhino population in South Africa.