But poaching rhino horn is a lucrative industry with much of the loot sold on to the affluent classes in Asia, particularly China and Vietnam, where it is believed by some that the horns can cure cancer and boost virility.
With a kilogram fetching up to $20,000, a single horn weighs around 10kg, according to a report by Moses Montesh, a professor in criminology at the University of South Africa.
However, exact prices are hard to measure with some saying a kilogram is more valuable than gold by weight.
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Montesh told CNN that some of the crime syndicates, getting rich off their relentless poaching, even include former army and police officers.
He said: "In some instances evidence suggests that private game operators are involved in rhino poaching. These guys are very familiar with all military and poaching techniques."
Montesh suggested that the South African armed forces could have a role to play in deterring poachers.
He added: "Currently our defense force is not involved in any military operation. I think this is an opportunity to keep our army active. The use of military drones can be handy."
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