Chris Froome rides for rhinos

Rodez - Tour de France leader Chris Froome is using his bike to make a statement against animal poaching.

A rhino baring its teeth has been painted onto the frame of the bike he's riding on Friday's Stage 13.

The Kenya-born Briton says on his website he "lived with rhinos, elephants and other wildlife" as a boy growing up in Africa.

He adds, "There's a huge need to raise awareness about rhino and elephant poaching," and that painting rhinos on his bike is "a great way to highlight their plight."

Proud to be #RidingForRhinos with @UnitedForWildlife http://t.co/CRryZNEkoq #WhoseSideAreYouOn #TDF2015 @letour pic.twitter.com/3uerNnpzr0

— Chris Froome (@chrisfroome) July 17, 2015

Head down & charge #TDF2015 #MaillotJaune Pic: @ridemediaHQ pic.twitter.com/i7FI3vyobJ

— Chris Froome (@chrisfroome) July 17, 2015