In South Africa, a unique experiment is being conducted where a radioactive substance has been installed in the horns of rhinos to prevent poaching. The substance is tiny and does not harm the rhinos or their habitat. Border stations can easily detect the radioactive horn if anyone tries to smuggle it out of the country.
Recently, 20 rhinos in South Africa have received the radioactive substance in their horns. Scientists believe this method will help curb rhino poaching, which is rampant in the country due to the high demand for rhino horns in Asia, particularly in China and Vietnam.
The radioactive horn is useless to poachers and poses no threats to humans. The authorities have installed detectors at border stations and airports to identify the radioactive radiation in the horns. The project, named Rhizotope, initially involves 20 rhinos from a zoo, but it may be expanded if successful.
The rhinos that have received the radioactive substance will be monitored regularly to ensure that the radioactivity is still present in their horns. According to the researchers, the horn can remain radioactive for up to five years. This innovative method aims to protect the rhinos from poaching and preserve their population in South Africa.