Review and images by EpicRaptorMan; edited by bmathison1972
When you think of the word “rhinoceros” the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) is likely not the first species to come to mind. Unfortunately, that is likely because it is a rare and dwindling species with an estimated scattered population of 80 or less putting them on the “Critically Endangered” list by the IUCN. The natural rainforests of Malaysia and Indonesia make up the homes of Sumatran rhinoceroses, but due to the isolation of these regions it makes population estimations difficult and these populations will continue to drop as a result of illegal logging, poaching, and now the new threat of inbreeding depression.
There are, or were, three subspecies: the Western Sumatran rhinoceros (D. s. sumatrensis), the Bornean rhinoceros (D. s. harrissoni), and the Northern Sumatran rhinoceros (D. s. lasiotis) which has likely already met its end. This one by Safari Ltd. (100103) appears to be the Bornean subspecies, D. s. harrissoni.
Sumatran rhinos are the smallest extant rhino species but can still weigh in anywhere from 1,100–2,200 lbs (500–1000 kg) with most weights averaging in the middle. At the shoulder they stand 3.5–4.75 ft (109–144 cm) and 7.7–10.5 ft (2.36–3.2 m) from snout to rump. Compared to this model which stands 2 inches tall at the shoulder and 4 inches long from snout to rump (excluding the tail and outstretched hind leg). Safari Ltd. certainly did the Sumatran rhinoceros justice with this model with its reddish-brown skin, thick skin folds, blunt horns, and shaggy hair on its legs, shoulders, sides, and back. Given how it was recently released in 2018 there are surely some still available so don’t wait; when they’re gone…they’re gone!
