Evidence Over Emotion: How Dehorning Reduces Rhino Poaching | Special ORC 2025 Episode 5

Special Episode — Recorded live at the Oppenheimer Research Conference 2025. In South Africa’s fight against rhino poaching, data—not emotion—drives progress. Conservation researchers Dr. Timothy Kuiper and Lucy Chimes share the results of their multi-reserve study on what actually reduces poaching. From aerial patrols, drones, and canine units to the controversial dehorning strategy, they discuss what works, what doesn’t, and why context matters. The evidence shows dehorning can significantly reduce poaching—but only when combined with strong security, community partnerships, and demand-side solutions. A rigorous, evidence-based look at how science is shaping the next chapter of rhino conservation.