The death of Sudan, the last male northern white rhinoceros in the Kenyan wild, is not just an environmental concern but a spiritual concern, according to a Catholic priest in Kenya who is also a conservationist.
Caretakers and scientists at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy decided to euthanize Sudan on March 19 following an infection that resulted from complications attributed to his age. Father Charles Odira said that Sudan's death indicated problems that relate to man's regard for God's creations in light of religious fanaticism.
"I feel as if we have neglected our duty as stewards of creation and should have done more for this species," Odira told reporters.
The priest also shared that demand for rhino body parts, as well as other animals, contributed to its extinction in light of religious fanaticism. In Asia, for instance, people believe these body parts have healing powers and bring good luck, hence poachers continue to hunt endangered species.
"We have talked to religious leaders in the region about how this is killing our wildlife," Odira stated. "We believe God cannot commission the death of species that he had brought to life."
Sudan left behind two female offspring, a daughter and a granddaughter. Hope of a pregnancy via in vitro fertilization, however, were dashed as the female animals are not of good health. Experts think they won't be able to carry a pregnancy to term or will die during the pregnancy.
The 45-year-old animal arrived at the Kenya conservatory in 2009 from a Czech Republic zoo. Because his species' status was critical, guards stood guard round-the-clock to ensure his safety and stave off poachers. The conservatory also cut off his horn so hunters wouldn't have interest in the animal.
In 1960s, rhinos like Sudan freely roamed the African and Sumatran jungles. At that time of his birth in 1972, there were hundreds of white rhinoceros.
