Conservation Research in Times of COVID-19 – The Rescue of the Northern White Rhino

What is it about?

What are the ethical consequences of Covid-19 on species conservation? How does the pandemic slow down science and what consequences may this have for the future of a species? We illustrate the answers using as an example the northern white rhinoceros. This charismatic species fulfills important functions in shaping the Central African landscape; many further species depend on its presence. Of the entire species, mainly due to poaching, only two females are left, but scientist plan to use state-of-the-art technology to yet save the species, which involves experts around the globe. Restrictions for travel, laboratory work, interrupted supply chains, financial losses of wildlife reserves and zoological institutions and the focus of media on Covid-19 are threatening the success of this ambitious plan, which has ethical implications on different levels including the individuals, their welfare and the survival of a species, and possibly ecosystem. This is even more dramatic, as there is increasing evidence that maintaining intact ecosystems can help to prevent the emergence of novel diseases such as Covid-19.

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