Twycross Zoo is home to the Eastern Black Rhino, a critically endangered subspecies of the black rhinoceros. These magnificent creatures, distinguished by their two horns, can reach up to 1.5m in height when fully grown. They rely heavily on their sense of smell to browse for their food on trees, bushes, and shrubs, as their eyesight is relatively poor.
The Plight of the Eastern Black Rhino
The Eastern black rhino population has seen a significant reduction due to illegal hunting and the increasing demand for rhino horn. Initially, the black rhino was the most common of all rhinos, but due to these factors, the species suffered a 98% reduction in the 20th century. However, conservation efforts from organizations worldwide have led to an increase in the Eastern black rhino population, rising from less than 2,500 to approximately 5,458 today.
Twycross Zoo’s Role in Conservation
Twycross Zoo is part of a European breeding programme consisting of over 20 zoos and wildlife parks working together to help preserve the population and maintain genetic diversity of this incredible species. In March 2019, a female Eastern black rhinoceros named Nandi arrived at the zoo, followed by a male companion, Sudan, in October 2020. Their meeting in their outdoor enclosure marked the first phase of their introduction, where they learn each other’s sights, smells, and sounds.
Visiting the Twycross Zoo Rhino
Visitors to Twycross Zoo can observe the Eastern black rhinos in their spacious outdoor enclosure, designed to mimic their natural habitat. The zoo’s knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide information about the rhinos and their conservation efforts.
Enrichment and Habitat Maintenance
To ensure the well-being of the Twycross Zoo rhinos, the zoo’s staff provide various forms of enrichment, such as novel objects, scents, and feeding challenges, to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors. Additionally, the zoo works tirelessly to maintain the rhinos’ habitat, ensuring that it meets their dietary and environmental needs.
Supporting the Twycross Zoo Rhino
Visitors can support the animals and zoo keepers at Twycross Zoo by purchasing items from their Amazon Wishlist, which helps provide enrichment for the animals and maintain their habitats. By contributing to these efforts, visitors can play a vital role in the conservation of the Eastern black rhino.
Quick Facts about the Twycross Zoo Rhino
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Conservation Status | Critically Endangered |
| Distribution | South and East Africa |
| Habitat | Wooded grassland, savannahs, and deserts |
| Diet | Trees, bushes, and shrubs |
| Weight | 900kg – 1,350kg |
| Number of Young | 1 |
| Lifespan | 40 – 50 years |
Conclusion
The Eastern black rhino at Twycross Zoo is a testament to the ongoing efforts to conserve this critically endangered species. By visiting the zoo and supporting its conservation initiatives, visitors can play a crucial role in ensuring the survival of this majestic creature for generations to come.