The African black rhinoceros population has been severely decimated by large-scale poaching, decreasing from about 70,000 individuals in the 1970s to roughly 5,500 today. The Selous Mikumi Ecosystem (SME) in Eastern Tanzania has been particularly affected, experiencing intense poaching pressures that left only about 55 individuals by 2009. The current population of this species in the area remains uncertain and under a guesstimate number of certain individuals. A critical factor contributing to the lack of confirmed information on the status of this critically endangered species is the insufficient understanding of the current potential suitable habitats within the vast SME. This shortcoming can be addressed by utilizing a combination of data, specifically previous observation location data of black rhino signs, by integrating with other habitat suitability determinants. Despite having the necessary information, this approach has not yet been thoroughly explored. These challenges underscore the urgent need for an extensive assessment to provide updated information that will enhance conservation efforts and prevent the extinction of the black rhino in the SME. This project is crucial in addressing the specific conservation needs of the black rhino population within the SME, aiming to mitigate the severe threats they face and promote their recovery.

The general objective of this project is to identify and map suitable habitats for the black rhinoceros in the SME using historical location presence records from 2000 to 2010 and existing remote sensed BR habitat suitability assessment data. This research will answer the following key research questions: