Bowling For Rhinos
The American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) sponsors an annual fundraiser called “Bowling For Rhinos” (BFR). To date, AAZK chapters nation-wide have raised over $6,000,000 to support three conservation projects. These are “Lewa Wildlife Conservancy” in Kenya, the “International Rhino Foundation” and “Action for Cheetahs in Kenya.” Our Chapter has helped to raise $5,448 over the years for this worthy cause. Your support of “AAZK’s Bowling For Rhinos” program can make a difference in worldwide conservation. Our efforts continue to make great strides in protecting the world’s rhinos plus hundreds of other endangered plant and animal species that share their habitat.
Why Save Rhinos?
Rhinos are considered an important "umbrella species." By protecting these animals we are ensuring the protection of thousands of other animal species that are found in the same habitat. Indonesia accounts for only 1.3% of the earth's land area, but supports 10% of all the world's plant and animal species. By protecting the endangered Sumatran rhinos and the endangered Javan rhinos that are found there, we are ensuring the protection of nearly 1.5 million acres of lowland rainforest. This habitat is critical, not only for the rhinos, but for 1,400 other threatened species as well.
In Kenya, our efforts help to support the endangered black rhino by guaranteeing 60,000 acres of protected rhino habitat. This protected habitat is home to 25% of Kenya's black rhino population and 20% of the global population of the endangered Grevy's Zebra. AAZK is also starting a new conservation effort to help save the Cheetah, the most endangered cat in Africa. AAZK is using conservation education programs to promote the importance of protecting cheetahs, rhinos and other species that share their habitat.
If you would like more information on AAZK's conservation initiatives please check out their website below.