Despite decades of education, the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve says illegal wildlife trafficking remains fuelled by deep-seated folklore, false medical claims and misunderstandings about rhino behaviour and conservation practices.

To mark World Rhino Day 2026, the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve says it aims to set the record straight on five of the most critical myths surrounding the mega-herbivore.

Myth 1 — Rhino Horn has Powerful Medicinal Properties

Rhino horn is made almost entirely of keratin — the same protein found in human hair and fingernails. Scientific analysis has repeatedly shown it has no proven medicinal value. Claims that it cures fever, hangover, cancer or acts as an aphrodisiac are dangerous myths that continue to drive poaching, says the reserve.

Myth 2 — White Rhinos are White, and Black Rhinos are Black

Both species are essentially grey. The name "white rhino" comes from a misinterpretation of the Afrikaans word "wyd" (meaning wide), referring to the animal's broad, square lip. Black rhinos likely got their name from the dark mud they often wallow in, says the reserve.

Myth 3 — Rhino Horn is the Same as Ivory

Elephant tusks are modified teeth made of dentine (ivory). Rhino horn is not a tooth at all — it is a compacted mass of keratin that grows from the skin and is not attached to the skull bone, says the reserve.

Myth 4 — Rhinos are Aggressive and Always Charge

While rhinos can be defensive when threatened, especially mothers with calves, they are not inherently aggressive. Many charges are bluff charges. Rhinos have relatively poor eyesight and rely heavily on smell and hearing, which sometimes leads them to investigate unfamiliar sounds or smells more closely than other animals would, says the reserve.

Myth 5 — Dehorning Rhinos Makes Them Safe From Poachers

While dehorning is an important anti-poaching tool that reduces the value of an animal to criminals, it is not a complete solution. Some poachers still kill dehorned rhinos out of spite or to avoid tracking the same animal again. Strong security, community involvement and demand reduction remain essential, says the reserve.

Why These Myths Matter

Misinformation continues to fuel the illegal wildlife trade. Every year, rhinos are killed because of false beliefs about the power of their horns. Education is one of the most powerful tools conservationists have, says the reserve.

The Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve says it is home to white rhinos that roam freely across over 1 200 hectares. Visitors can see these animals on guided or self-drive game drives while supporting the Reserve's ongoing anti-poaching and conservation work.

Visitors to the Reserve this World Rhino Day and beyond have the chance to enjoy game drives, the Bothongo WonderCave, predator feedings and a range of family-friendly activities — all while contributing directly to the protection of rhinos and other wildlife, concludes the reserve.

For more information, visit www.rhinolion.co.za. You can also follow the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor