BARDIYA, DECEMBER 15

The number of rhinos has increased in Bardiya National Park.

The number of the rare species increased after locals supported the conservation of rhinos in the buffer zone of the national park. As many as 22 rhinos were found in the park in 2008. That number has now increased by 36.

There are six rhinos in Babai valley at present. Of them, one died of natural causes, according to National Natural Conservation Fund Programme.

Bardiya National Park Chief Conservationist Bishnu Prasad Shrestha said the new rhino census was yet to start.

“The number of rhinos has increased,” he said, adding the number had increased after poaching was controlled.