Rhinoceros Poaching: Conservation Crisis or Conservation Crime?

Despite the relatively successful repopulation of rhinoceros in South Africa during the 1950s, this species is currently being exploited at a rate that is unsustainable with the poaching of rhinoceros for their horns... [ view full abstract ]

Despite the relatively successful repopulation of rhinoceros in South Africa during the 1950s, this species is currently being exploited at a rate that is unsustainable with the poaching of rhinoceros for their horns threatening the long-term survival of this species. This study uses a conservation criminology lens to focus on stakeholders in South Africa and examine their perceptions related to the poaching of rhinoceros within the context of specific criminological concepts (e.g., corruption, deterrence). Four research questions are addressed. First, what are stakeholder perspectives on the effectiveness of current and proposed wildlife crime (i.e., the poaching of rhinoceros) prevention strategies and interventions? Second, what are stakeholder opinions regarding the characteristics of punishment that offenders should receive? Third, to what extent is corruption prevalent within the context of rhinoceros poaching? Fourth, what are stakeholder perceptions of trust in agents / agencies responsible for protecting rhinoceros from poachers? Data were obtained from 54 semi-structured interviews with multiple stakeholders (e.g., community members, field rangers, government employees, private game reserve personnel) in six provinces across South Africa. One of the most important findings was that across stakeholder groups, the majority support legalization of the rhinoceros horn trade as one prevention strategy. The majority also believe that penalties are sufficient, but arrest and conviction rates are poor leading to low risks for poachers. Stakeholders have little trust in the South African Police and the South African National Defense Force troops to protect rhinoceros from poachers and enforce existing laws, yet the majority support more military and anti-poaching presence on the ground. The majority of stakeholders also believe that corruption associated with the poaching of rhinoceros is increasing in this country. This study provides data needed for understanding competing beliefs, addressing any possible misunderstandings, and developing potential solutions to the poaching of rhinoceros.