The cause of death of 5 Rhinoceros sondaicus in Ujung Kulon is still a mystery. It was undoubtedly a disease that killed them, possibly anthrax. But the population of between 40 and 60 is at risk not only from another outbreak, but also from changing conditions in their habitat. The begetation is still changing after the Krakatoa tidal wave devastated the forest in 1883. Dense stands of the palm Arenga obtusifolia, which provide no food for rhinos, are increasing. The rhino appear to be changing their diet in response to food shortages and they may have need to compete with banteng, which are increasing in the absence of predators like the tiger. Trials in vegetation management have been carried out to improve conditions for the rhino. Palms are cut down to allow the rhinos' food plants to grow, but this has to be done near the existing feeding routes of the rhinos.
Eventually some rhinos may have to be translocated from Ujung Kulon to establish a second population, but the ground has to be carefully prepared. Sumatra would be suitable but local people must be prepared. Even if all this were done, translocation is only possible if the Ujung Kulon population can be proved to be increasing.
