Floodplain
grassland interspersed with marsh, swamp and lake, and
the adjoining riverine forest, are the favoured habitat
of the Indian rhino. They prefer to feed on short grasses
and seek shelter in thick stands of tall grass, sometimes
20-25 feet (six-eight metres) high.
Although largely grazers, Indian rhinos will also browse
leaves from shrubs and trees and, when near farms, will
supplement their diet with crops which they habitually
raid at night. They are fond of water and will spend hours
wallowing. Besides cooling their huge bodies, the swamps
and lakes also provide them with nourishing food in the
form of aquatic plants.
Density/Range:
Female Indian rhinos move over home ranges covering 9
- 15 sq km (3.5 - 5.8 sq mi). This area is temporarily
enlarged when food and water supplies run out.
Economic
Importance for Humans
Positive
Asian rhino horn can be sold for more than twice its
weight in gold. After processing, it has been known
to reach $30,000 per kg. The horn is used as a medicine
and an aphrodesiac. Medicinal purposes are as a pain
reliever and a fever suppressant. There are no scientific
studies, however, that show that rhino horn is affective
for any of these purposes. In addition to the horn,
rhino hide, blood, urine, and dung also have economic
value.
Negative
Rhinos have been know to injure crops by trampling and
consumption. At one point, a government bounty was established
to keep rhinos from ruining tea plantations. In addition,
there are recorded fatalities as a result of an attacks
by rhinos, usually when a mother with calf was startled. |
