The Brookfield Zoo in Illinois is home to a critically endangered species, the eastern black rhinoceros. The zoo has been housing this species since 1933, making it a long-standing resident. Nakili, a 33-year-old male eastern black rhinoceros, was recently euthanized due to progressive kidney disease, leaving the zoo with a female eastern black rhinoceros named Layla.
Nakili, the Eastern Black Rhinoceros
Nakili was the oldest male of his kind living in an accredited North American zoo. He arrived at Brookfield Zoo in 1994 at the age of four and was known for his gentle nature and participation in zoo chats and up-close experiences with visitors. Nakili had one living offspring named Kianga, born at Brookfield Zoo in 2003, who currently resides at another Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoo.
Characteristics and Behavior of Black Rhinos
Black rhinos are quadrupedal, walking on four legs with their feet supported by a fleshy pad. They can run quickly, reaching speeds up to 35 mph. They are generally solitary animals but sometimes congregate in small groups for short periods. Black rhinos are inactive during the hottest hours of the day, resting in the shade and frequently wallowing in shallow mud pools to reduce their body temperature. They use various vocalizations, including snorts, growls, and squeaks, to communicate, and also use their tail and ears to convey emotions and intentions.
Conservation Status of the Eastern Black Rhinoceros
The eastern black rhinoceros is the most endangered of the three black rhinoceros subspecies, with an estimated population of only 740 individuals remaining in Africa. The main threat to the species is poaching for its horn, which is used for medicinal and ornamental purposes.
Current Status at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is still home to a female eastern black rhinoceros named Layla. The zoo has been involved in conservation efforts, including genetic banking and artificial insemination trials, to help advance the care and population of black rhinoceros in professional care for future generations.
The loss of Nakili, the oldest male eastern black rhinoceros in an accredited North American zoo, is a significant blow to the conservation efforts for this critically endangered species. However, Brookfield Zoo’s continued commitment to housing and caring for Layla, as well as its participation in various conservation initiatives, demonstrates the zoo’s dedication to the preservation of the eastern black rhinoceros.
Additional Facts about Black Rhinos at Brookfield Zoo
- Brookfield Zoo has been housing eastern black rhinoceros since 1933, making it one of the longest-standing residents of the zoo.
- Nakili was known for his gentle nature and willingness to participate in educational programs, allowing visitors to learn about the species up close.
- Layla, the remaining female eastern black rhinoceros at Brookfield Zoo, is an important part of the breeding program for the species, as her genetic diversity can contribute to the overall population.
- Brookfield Zoo’s conservation efforts include genetic banking, which involves collecting and storing genetic material from the rhinos to preserve their genetic diversity for future breeding programs.
- The zoo also participates in artificial insemination trials, which aim to improve the reproductive success of the eastern black rhinoceros in captivity, ultimately contributing to the species’ recovery in the wild.
Conclusion
The loss of Nakili, the beloved male eastern black rhinoceros at Brookfield Zoo, is a somber reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by this critically endangered species. However, the zoo’s continued commitment to housing and caring for Layla, as well as its participation in various conservation initiatives, demonstrates its dedication to the preservation of the eastern black rhinoceros. As one of the longest-standing residents of Brookfield Zoo, the black rhinos have played a significant role in educating and inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect this remarkable species.
References
- https://www.aza.org/connect-stories/stories/eastern-black-rhinoceros-euthanized-at-brookfield-zoo
- https://news.wttw.com/2023/05/17/brookfield-zoo-mourns-loss-nakili-rhino-only-estimated-740-his-subspecies-left-wild
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/blackrhino
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Brookfield-Zoo/About-%281%29/Press-room/2023-Press-Releases-%281%29/Eastern-Black-Rhinoceros-Euthanized-at-Brookfield