Bardiya, Aug. 9 -- horned rhinoceros in Bardiya National Park (BNP) is declining despite years of success in controlling poaching, with conservation officials blaming dwindling water sources, shrinking grasslands and a shortage of wallowing ponds, all compounded by growing human pressure.

The BNP, the largest national park in lowland Tarai covering an area of 968 square kilometres, counted 38 rhinos in its 2021 census. According to the park administration, seven rhinos died over the past five years mainly due to fighting.

Around 20 rhinos were believed to have crossed into India's Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary through the Khata corridor over the past two years, mainly due to water shortages.

Authorities have not conducted fresh surve...