Why do rhinos have horns?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: Defense and dominance displays
Defense and dominance displays ✓ — Correct! Rhino horns are made of keratin, the same material as fingernails, and they serve several purposes. They are used for defense against predators and for sparring between males over territory and mates. Rhinos also use their horns to push aside brush, break branches, and dig for minerals and water. Mothers defend their calves fiercely with their horns. Poaching is a major threat because horns are valued in illegal trade, though they have no medicinal properties. Horns can grow back if cut, and white rhinos can have front horns up to five feet long.
Echolocation like sonar — Wrong. Rhinos do not echolocate. They have poor eyesight but excellent smell and hearing. Horns are physical weapons for defense and dominance.
Temperature regulation organ — Wrong. Horns do not regulate temperature; rhinos rely on their ears and skin for that. Horns are defensive weapons and dominance tools made of keratin.
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