Conservation officials have announced the death the first Javan rhino ever translocated as part of Indonesia’s conservation program, marking a setback for efforts to protect the critically endangered species. The Ujung Kulon National Park Authority confirmed on Nov. 27 that the male rhino, named Musofa, died at the Javan Rhino Study and Conservation Area (JRSCA) despite intensive veterinary care. Musofa was captured Nov. 3, after entering a pit trap in the Gardu Buruk area of Ujung Kulon National Park as part of a planned genetic-management initiative. After weather and safety assessments, he was moved Nov. 5 to the JRSCA using a military transport vehicle in an operation supported by the Indonesian National Armed Forces and conservation partners. He initially arrived in stable condition and showed early signs of adaptation. However, Musofa’s condition deteriorated Nov. 7, prompting emergency treatment by veterinary teams, and he perished later that afternoon. “All procedures were carried out in accordance with international conservation standards, including simulations, ethical reviews and logistical and security preparedness,” Ardi Andono, head of the park authority, said in a statement. The Javan rhino Musofa in a pit trap on Nov. 3 before translocation. Image courtesy of the Ujung Kulon National Park Authority. Musofa arrived at the Javan Rhino Study and Conservation Area (JRSCA). Image courtesy of the Ujung Kulon National Park Authority. A necropsy report dated Nov. 8 found that chronic internal illnesses were the underlying cause of death, with experts at IPB University concluding the rhino had long been weakened by…This article was originally published on Mongabay

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