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Rhinos Return to Devon Zoo After Decades
12 Jun
Summary
- Southern white rhinos Khulu and Benja arrived on June 5.
- The species is classified as near threatened by the IUCN.
- Conservation efforts have significantly recovered the rhino population.
Southern white rhinos have returned to Paignton Zoo in Devon for the first time in decades. Half-brothers Khulu and Benja, aged 20 months and two years respectively, arrived on June 5 from Whipsnade Zoo. They have moved into newly renovated indoor accommodation within the zoo's new grasslands habitat loop.
The species is currently classified as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Despite this, southern white rhinos are considered a conservation success story. Thought to be nearly extinct in the late 1800s, conservation efforts have helped their population recover to over 15,000 individuals.
The rhinos are settling in well, with initial play-fighting observed as they readjusted to each other's presence. They will continue to grow until reaching full maturity around 10 years of age. Native to the grasslands and savannahs of southern Africa, they are the largest rhino species, with adult males weighing up to 2.3 tonnes.
