Jakarta – A Javan rhinoceros has given birth to another calf in Ujung Kulon National Park, West Java, with camera traps capturing the newborn alongside its mother, named Desy, the Ministry of Forestry said on Monday, November 2.
The calf was first identified on October 10 at 9:35 p.m. through footage recorded by camera traps operated by the park’s monitoring team. It appeared healthy and active, following its mother, and was estimated to be one to two months old.
Desy is one of the most productive female Javan rhinos in the park. She has now given birth to five calves, including Arjuna in 2013, Arum in 2015, Hawa in 2018, Syauki in 2024 and the latest calf, born in 2026.
The latest calf is her third offspring with a male rhino believed to be Musofa, according to an analysis by the park’s Javan rhino monitoring team.
Mahfudz, acting director general of natural resources and ecosystem conservation at the Forestry Ministry, welcomed the birth as a positive development for the survival of the critically endangered species, which is found only in Indonesia.
He attributed the birth to protection efforts, including intensive patrols and measures to safeguard the rhinos’ habitat from disturbances.
Ujung Kulon National Park head Ardi Andono said Desy was in good condition and experienced in raising calves. The monitoring team would continue observing the mother and calf while minimising human disturbance to ensure their safety.
The ministry said it would strengthen conservation measures, including habitat rationalisation through the Javan Rhino Study and Conservation Area (JRSCA).
It also urged the public to help protect the species by avoiding illegal activities within the national park. (nsh)
Banner photo: Ministry of Forestry
