Sometimes, to save a life, drastic decisions must be made. And in the case of the rhinoceros, removing its horn is proving to be the most effective measure to protect it from extinction.

For decades, rhinos have been victims of poaching for one reason only: their horn. Used in traditional medicine, jewelry, or as a status symbol, the rhino horn became a death sentence for thousands of these majestic animals.

But a controversial strategy is changing the game: controlled dehorning. This procedure, performed by veterinarians, involves removing the horn painlessly and safely. Since rhinos have no commercial value for hunters, they cease to be a target.

A recent study revealed that this technique has reduced poaching by 78% in the areas where it has been implemented. Furthermore, it does not affect the animals' health or reproductive capacity, as the horn slowly regrows over time.

The measure has been adopted in countries such as South Africa, Namibia, and Kenya, and has literally saved thousands of lives. Furthermore, by reducing hunting pressure, rhino populations are slowly beginning to recover.

While not a definitive solution, it is currently the most effective. The key lies in combining this measure with patrols, legal penalties, and education to reduce the demand for horn.