Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Javan Rhinoceros

Scientific name: Rhinocéros sondaicus


Javan Rhinoceros

IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

Family: RHINOCEROTIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 120 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01-31.12

Gestation: 15 à 16 mois

Births: 01.01-31.12


Habitat:
Swampy tropical forests

Description:
The Javan Rhinoceros is a rare and critically endangered species of rhinoceros found primarily on the island of Java in Indonesia. It measures about 3 to 3.5 meters in length, with a tail of 60 to 80 cm, and weighs between 900 and 1,400 kg. Its fur is dark gray, with thick, wrinkled skin, and it has a single horn located on its nose. The Javan Rhinoceros is primarily herbivorous, feeding on fruits, leaves, shoots, and grass. It typically lives in tropical forests and swampy areas, where it hides in dense vegetation to avoid predators. It is threatened by habitat loss, illegal hunting, and habitat fragmentation, with only a very small remaining population, estimated at fewer than 75 individuals.

Recommended lens:
>=70-200 mm

Photography tips:
Approach slowly and discreetly, using a telephoto lens to avoid disturbing the Javan rhinoceros, an extremely rare and shy species. Photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is soft and the Javan rhinoceros is more active, often searching for food or moving through tropical forests. Capture moments of natural behavior: The Javan rhinoceros is primarily herbivorous, often observed feeding or resting in dense wooded areas. Wait for moments when it is more visible, without disturbing its activity. Be patient and respectful: Due to its rarity and elusive behavior, be prepared to wait a long time to observe it in its natural habitat without disturbing it. The Javan Rhinoceros is critically endangered, mainly due to habitat loss and poaching. It is crucial to respect its natural environment and minimize any disruption of its behaviors. Strictly follow local conservation rules to preserve this rare and vulnerable species.

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