Rhinos

Why are Rhinos transported by hanging them upside down under planes?

This question is answered by a study conducted by veteran wildlife researcher Robin Radcliffe. The study aimed to understand the effects of transporting Rhinos in an upside-down position after being stunned by the anesthetic.

While this research may seem unusual, it has proven to be highly effective in practice and even received the Ig Nobel Prize in 2021.

But why do we need to study how to transport Rhinos? Isn't it better for them to live peacefully in their natural habitats?

In recent years, wildlife trafficking has become rampant, leading to the illegal smuggling of a large number of endangered animals. To protect these animals and ensure their survival, urgent measures need to be taken.

Rhinos, being one of the precious protected species, often require quick transportation by airplanes to new environments where they can continue to grow and reproduce.

Transporting Rhinos upside down under planes is a challenging and technically complex process, but it is currently the most feasible method available.

When executed correctly and safely, this transportation method can have a significant impact on rhinoceros conservation.

Rhinos are relatively large mammals, and their weight and size pose unique challenges during transportation.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism（MEFT）of Namibia, the research team employed a crane to lift 12 Rhinos upside down and measure their limb reactions.

The results showed that the Rhinos responded well to this method of transport. In fact, there was evidence suggesting that hanging them upside down was even better than having them lie on their sides or down.

Physiological indicators revealed that both positions, whether hanging upside down or lying on their sides, caused significant hypoxemia (insufficient oxygen in the blood) and hypercarbia (elevated carbon dioxide levels in the arterial blood).

While hanging upside down, Rhinos had a mean arterial partial pressure of oxygen of 42 mmHg, which was 4 mmHg higher than when lying on their sides.

Their arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide was 52 mmHg, 3 mmHg lower than in lateral recumbency.

Although lung function impairment was not significant in either position, hanging upside down resulted in less compression of the Rhinos' thoracic cavity, allowing for better extension of the spine and slightly increased inspiratory volume, leading to smoother breathing.

In contrast, keeping them lying on their sides would compress the lower part of the lungs, impeding proper gas exchange due to gravity.

Rhinos undergo the routine process of being tied by ropes, wearing eye masks, and hanging upside down from the underside of helicopters during transportation.

While they sway and wobble with the wind, encounters with birds may also occur along the way.