Happy World Rhino Day! Each year on September 22nd, Blue Rhino joins the entire world as together we take time to raise awareness about the plight of rhinoceroses around the world. Did you know that there are only five species of rhinos remaining in the wild? As part of our commitment to saving the rhinos, we encourage everyone to take some time today to learn a little more about rhinos and what you can do to help save these incredible creatures.
What is the International Rhino Foundation?
Supporting rhino conservation and education are just some of the many reasons Blue Rhino and Ferrellgas have chosen to partner with the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) as part of the Ferrellgas Century Project. We started the Ferrellgas Century Project as a way to give back to the world around us ahead of our company’s 100th birthday in 2039.
IRF’s good work fits well with those goals. The organization’s mission is to “ensure the survival of rhinos through strategic partnerships, targeted protection, and scientifically sound interventions.” So, what does that mean? IRF relies on companies like us to help spread the word about rhino conservation. They also work with conservation groups around the world to protect rhinos from poachers and other threats. And they’re constantly looking into scientific interventions which could help preserve, and boost, the current numbers of rhinos in the wild.
Currently, there are five remaining species of rhinos in the wild, and the numbers left of each species may astound you:
- Greater One Horned – 4,000
- Javan – 76
- Sumatran – 34
- Black – 6,000
- White – 16,000
As you can see, both the Javan and Sumatran rhinos only have a few dozen animals left on earth. In addition, the number of rhinos in the wild is a fraction of what they were just a few decades ago. In the 20th century, about 500,000 rhinos roamed the earth. Today, roughly 27,000 are left. Those numbers have dwindled even more rapidly in the past few years thanks to an uptick in poaching. In fact, there was a 93% increase in poaching between 2021 and 2022. 10,000 rhinos have been killed by poachers or loss of habitat in the past decade.
While those may sound like some scary statistics, conservation groups like IRF are making great strides when it comes to saving the rhinos. IRF funds and implements rhino conservation programs around the world. They focus on education and conservation at the local level, where the rhinos live. They engage local communities and protect rhino habitats to give them a better chance at survival. And their efforts are paying off. Baby rhinos are being born thanks to its support of various breeding programs. Two years ago, the Greater One-Horned rhino population reached a new high. And more people are learning about the plight of the rhinos thanks to IRF’s robust educational programs.
What does Blue Rhino do for IRF?
So how does Blue Rhino support IRF? The employee-owners of Blue Rhino have always loved the animal that is the namesake of the brand. Our company focuses on sustainability. Not only do we financially support the International Rhino Foundation, but we also help raise awareness about the good work they do. That keeps the momentum going and helps their efforts grow year-round.
This year, during IRF’s “Keep the Five Alive” fundraising campaign, we raised more than $80,000 – our highest total ever – by spreading the word about IRF on our social media channels. We also told our customers about IRF’s mission. In addition, we launched a limited-edition propane tank sleeve on our Blue Rhino propane tanks to raise awareness and we continue to share information on our website and social media channels about rhinos and their plight. We also helped sell a co-branded t-shirt in May to help raise money for the organization. That money goes a long way to supporting IRF’s efforts.
How You Can Help
You can support the International Rhino Foundation, too, by spreading awareness. It doesn’t have to be labor intensive. In fact, it can be as simple as following IRF on their social channels and sharing their posts. You can also make a monetary donation to IRF or make a purchase from their online store. IRF has a selection of apparel you can choose from to spread the word and help raise awareness. You can even symbolically adopt a rhino and become its sponsor!
Make Recipes from Each Rhino Region
If you do decide to throw an awareness and donation party to support IRF, you’re probably going to want to serve some food, right? Blue Rhino has you covered. We’ve compiled a list of recipes featuring food from each rhino region around the world.
Padangnese Grilled Chicken
Take, for example, this Padangnese Grilled Chicken, inspired by the home of Sumatran rhinos. This dish relies on bold spices, fresh ingredients, and simple preparation to really shine. Coconut milk, bay leaves, and lemongrass give this dish the true taste of Indonesia.
Grilled Tofu and Vegetable Kebabs with Spicy Yogurt
If you’re looking for a meatless option, try these Grilled Tofu and Vegetable Kebabs with Spicy Yogurt Marinade. This recipe was inspired by the home of the Greater One-Horned rhinos: India. Chunks of fresh vegetables give this dish great color and freshness. Cooling Greek yogurt melds well with minced garlic, ginger, garam masala spice, and tahini paste to give this dish a burst of flavor.
Barbecue Spiced Shrimp
Barbecue Spiced Shrimp cook up quickly on the grill. This recipe was inspired by Kenya, home of the White rhinos. Kenyan recipes are known for their bold spice blends, so this recipe will definitely wake up your taste buds! Cinnamon, garlic, turmeric, and ginger meld together to make an amazing spice mixture. Fresh lime juice gives it a little punch and some citrusy flavor. In a matter of minutes, you’ll have a tasty treat to serve over rice.
Zimbabwean Steak Skewers
Finally, you’ll want to try these Zimbabwean Steak Skewers. Black rhinos are found in Zimbabwe, and this recipe represents many of the flavors you’ll find in that country. The marinade for these steak skewers includes ginger paste, hot sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, and yogurt for a sweet heat you won’t be able to resist. Pro tip – If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water ahead of time so they don’t burn on the grill.
Now Go Out and Celebrate!
Are you hungry? We certainly are! Having those recipes in your back pocket is the perfect excuse to throw a barbecue for your friends and family, all while spreading the word about saving the rhinos. Every dollar, every little bit of knowledge, and every conversation can have a big impact. So do your part on World Rhino Day.
Want to access more yummy recipes that you can make on the grill? Be sure to like and follow Blue Rhino on our official social media channels, including Facebook, X, and Instagram. We’re always posting new recipe ideas, giveaways, contests, and more. Now get out there and grill!