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Rhino Frankie Arrives in South Bend
23 Apr
Summary
- Frankie, a 5,200-pound southern white rhino, is the newest resident.
- He previously lived at Brevard Zoo in Florida before his 1,168-mile journey.
- Frankie's arrival supports conservation efforts and population management.
A 7-foot tall, 5,200-pound southern white rhino named Frankie has become the newest resident at Potawatomi Zoo. Frankie, a 24-year-old male, made a journey of 1,168 miles from his previous home at Brevard Zoo in Viera, Florida.
His transfer was recommended by the Southern White Rhinoceros Species Survival Plan, an organization focused on managing rhino populations and bolstering conservation efforts for the species in the wild. Zoo officials noted that while Frankie is young for a rhino, his genetics may already be well-represented in breeding programs, making his move beneficial for overall population diversity.
Frankie is adjusting to his new environment in South Bend, Indiana. He has been seen outside on pleasant days as he gets acquainted with his keepers, who report he is calm and accepting of interaction. He is scheduled for his public debut on Saturday, April 25. His arrival highlights the importance of conserving megafauna species for ecosystem health.
