The Northern White Rhino is one of two subspecies of the White Rhinos. However, with the recent death of Sudan, the last male Northern White Rhino, the lifespan of the species is dwindling.

Sudan was 45-years old when he died, and he was reportedly in bad health prior to his passing. He died on Mar. 20 and left only two other members of his species. He lived in Kenya, surrounded by armed guards every hour of the day to protect him from poachers. After a week of bad health and pain, his veterinary team made the decision to euthanize him.

The Northern White Rhino species had been targeted by poachers, a reason researchers attribute to their dwindling numbers. Rhino horn is believed to be able to cure various diseases and ailments, so it is very valuable. In many countries, the trade of Rhino horn is still legal, despite the often violent means of getting it.

There are only five species of Rhino left in the world, and they are all considered endangered due to poaching. In the Northern White Rhino subspecies, only two females are left so there is little hope for saving the species.

Sudan had lived in a Czech Zoo since he was 2, but he was airlifted back to Kenya along with seven other Northern White Rhinos in a last-ditch effort to save the species.

Even though there is a high possibility that the Northern White Rhinos will go extinct in our lifetime, there are ways to save other endangered species that suffer because of poaching.

Savetherhino.org accepts donations to support shelters for rhinos to protect them.