San Diego Zoo Global is celebrating the passage of legislation through the California State Assembly which has closed loopholes that will stop the sale of elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn in California.
Rhino numbers are dropping worldwide as a result of hunting for their horn which is used in some traditional medicines.
“San Diego Zoo Global commends Assembly Speaker Atkins and the Assembly on their efforts to enforce the ban on elephant ivory and rhino horn products in California,” stated Douglas Myers, president, San Diego Zoo Global. “Elephants and rhinos are being slaughtered at alarming rates and could become extinct in our lifetime. In keeping with our effort to save species, we have been working to raise awareness for their plight and efforts to combat poaching.”
Nola, one of just five Northern white rhinos left on the planet created a special artwork to commemorate the event which will be presented to Atkins.
Nola’s horn makes the perfect brush as it grows downward unlike that of the average rhino. She moved non-toxic paint around a canvas to make the artwork. This activity forms part of her enrichment routine which provides physical and mental stimulation to her.
Photo Credit: Ken Bohn/ San Diego Zoo Global
