The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to a remarkable Greater One-horned Rhino named Brian, who serves as a captivating ambassador for his species. This species, once on the brink of extinction, has been brought back from the edge through tireless conservation efforts. However, with only around 4,000 Greater One-horned Rhinos left in the world, the importance of these efforts cannot be overstated.
The Remarkable Brian: Columbus Zoo’s Greater One-Horned Rhino
Brian, the Greater One-horned Rhino at the Columbus Zoo, is currently 5 years old and is reaching sexual maturity. As part of the breeding program, he will soon be spending time at The Wilds, a conservation center managed by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This move is crucial for the continued growth and sustainability of the Greater One-horned Rhino population.
The Wilds: A Sanctuary for Greater One-Horned Rhinos
In addition to Brian, The Wilds has recently celebrated the birth of two Greater One-horned Rhino calves in the fall of 2023. The first calf, a female, was born on September 22, 2023, just in time for World Rhino Day. Sadly, her mother, Anna, was unable to care for her, and the calf was hand-reared by The Wilds’ Animal Management team. The second calf, a male, was born on November 25, 2023, to mother Sanya, who is an experienced mother of seven.
Conservation Efforts at The Wilds
The Wilds is deeply committed to the conservation of rhinos and has partnered with the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and other research facilities to form the American Institute of Rhinoceros Science (AIRS). This collaborative initiative, made possible by a National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), is dedicated to saving rhinos through scientific research on their physical condition, dietary needs, reproduction, and behavioral and environmental factors.
Visiting the Greater One-Horned Rhinos
Visitors to The Wilds this winter season may have the opportunity to see the rhino calves in their barns during the Rhino Barn Tours and Winter Wildside Tours, which are presented by AEP Ohio. These tours offer a unique chance to observe these magnificent creatures up close and learn about the ongoing conservation efforts.
The Importance of Conservation
The Greater One-horned Rhino, also known as the Indian Rhino, was once on the brink of extinction, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild. Thanks to the tireless efforts of conservation organizations and initiatives like those at the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, the species has made a remarkable comeback, with a current population of around 4,000.
However, the fight to protect these majestic animals is far from over. Poaching, habitat loss, and other threats continue to put the Greater One-horned Rhino at risk. By supporting conservation efforts and visiting zoos and wildlife sanctuaries that showcase these animals, we can all play a role in ensuring the long-term survival of the Greater One-horned Rhino.
Conclusion
The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds are shining examples of the vital role that zoos and conservation centers play in protecting endangered species like the Greater One-horned Rhino. By providing a safe haven for these animals, conducting important research, and educating the public, they are making a significant contribution to the preservation of this remarkable species. As visitors, we have the opportunity to witness the majesty of the Greater One-horned Rhino and learn about the ongoing efforts to safeguard its future.
References:
– Columbus Zoo News: Two Rare Rhinos (Persian Onager) Are Latest Births at The Wilds
– Columbus Zoo News: Male Greater One-Horned Rhino Arrives at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
– Columbus Zoo News: Second Greater One-Horned Rhino Calf Born at The Wilds This Fall Offers Hope for the Species
– Rhinos.org Blog: My Rhino Road Trip: Columbus Zoo
– Columbus Zoo: Hoofit Rhino Stop