T

he Ujung Kulon Indonesia Foundation (Yukindo) says that it is ready to be a partner in helping to conserve the Javan rhinoceros that live in Ujung Kulon National Park in Pandeglang, Banten.

Yukindo's offer is open to any donors who want to help fund the conservancy effort.

'€œIf, indeed, there are people who want to help conserve the rhinos, we are ready to become partners in achieving that end,'€ Yukindo executive director Enjat Sudarjat said on Thursday as quoted by Antara news agency.

One of the activities Yukindo is working on is to eradicate the invasive sugar palm trees that threaten the undergrowth, which comprises the food for the Javan rhinos.

The foundation is also cultivating various plants to supplement the rhinos' food supply.

'€œWe need the support, especially funding to preserve the Javan rhinos,'€ said Enjat.

Other Yukindo activities include local empowerment programs for people living in the Ujung Kulon National Park by inviting them to contribute in the Javan rhino conservation effort.

Ujung Kulon National Park head Haryono said 51 Javan rhinos were living in the conservation area, eight of whom were baby rhinos. (asw)