Information on Hunting the White Rhino

The white rhinoceros is an uncommon sight on the plains of Africa. As a member of the African “Big Five,” which also includes lions, leopards, elephants and Cape buffalo, white rhinos are the only member of the rhinoceros family that can be legally hunted. Big-game hunters can now actively hunt white rhinos now that the population has bounced back after years of strict protection. It takes a powerful weapon and a strong sense of adventure to brave the African wilderness to hunt these dangerous giants. With the white rhino’s numbers in the clear, hunters can now finish their hunting collection of the African Big Five.

  1. About White Rhinos

    • The white rhino is the second largest land mammal, after the elephant. White rhinos can be identified by their boxy lips, as opposed to the pointed lips of the black rhino.

      Conservation efforts have led to a significant population boom of the white rhino, allowing some African governments to permit hunting these animals.

      Although rhinos have poor vision, they compensate with an excellent sense of smell that alerts them to predators. White rhinos usually sport two horns on their snout.

    Where to Hunt

    • Rhinos graze on grass and shrubs.

      Hunting white rhinos is permitted in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. There are a number of game preserves and open savannas to hunt these massive beasts.

      These nations allow hunters to export their trophy animals to the United States and Europe. Check to see what permits are needed to export rhino trophies in the country you plan on hunting in. Hunting preserves can charge around $200,000 for a white rhino.

    Prepare for the Hunt

    • Hire a guide who knows the area, as you don’t want to risk having your vehicle stuck in a treacherous road or becoming dinner for a pride of lions. Rhinos have very thick skin, so a higher caliber rifle or magnum is needed to hunt them.

      Contact hunting preserves such as “Safari Outfitters” or “African Sky” for a package deal to help make your hunt a successful and enjoyable adventure.

    Hunting Rhinos

    • Adult rhinos have no natural predators.

      Rhinos will not see you coming, however, they will smell and hear you if you aren’t careful. Approach one from downwind so that your presence remains unknown to the animal.

      If you scare the rhino, if might charge and attempt to gore you with its horns. Shoot the rhino behind the shoulder at a distance of no more than 50 feet away to take down your hunt. Be patient while hunting on foot, as rhinos might run away with little or no provocation.

    Keep in Mind

    • Note that while white rhinos are widely hunted, the endangered black rhino is a protected species. It is difficult to stress the danger of hunting rhinos, as they are unpredictable, aggressive and paranoid animals that weigh about 6,600 pounds as adults.

      A prized rhino hunt has a massive curved front horn that has gown above its ears. Do not worry about being mobbed by rhinos, as they are solitary animals. If you find one, focus your attention on bringing it down.