The impact of the Krakatoa eruption in 1883 on the population of Rhinoceros sondaicus in Ujung Kulon, with details of rhino observations from 1857 to 1949

A recent claim that the Krakatoa eruption in 1883 wiped out the entire Javan Rhinoceros population in Ujung Kulon National Park is debunked. Analysis of historical reports reveals that humans and rhinos survived the eruption, with human settlement lasting until 1906 due to tiger predation. Rhino sightings began in 1857, with estimates suggesting a stable population of around 40–50 individuals from 1857 to 1949. The study concludes that Ujung Kulon’s rhino population was not a post-eruption founder group, challenging the narrative of complete devastation.

Strien, N. J. v., & Rookmaaker, K. (2010). The impact of the Krakatoa eruption in 1883 on the population of Rhinoceros sondaicus in Ujung Kulon, with details of rhino observations from 1857 to 1949. Journal of Threatened Taxa, 02(01), 633–638. https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.o2267.633-8