Whipsnade Zoo, located in the United Kingdom, is home to a ‘crash’ of seven southern white rhinos, including the newest addition, a male calf named Benja, born on 7 March 2024 to mother Jaseera and father Sizzle. As a near-threatened species, the southern white rhinos at Whipsnade Zoo are part of a crucial conservation effort to protect this iconic species.

The Birth of Benja: A Milestone for Whipsnade Zoo

Benja’s birth was a significant event for the Whipsnade Zoo team, as the southern white rhino calf arrived after a brief four-minute labour. Weighing in at a healthy 45kg, Benja quickly found his footing, taking his first wobbly steps within two hours of being born. By the end of his first week, the energetic calf was “zooming around” and exploring his indoor den, much to the delight of the zoo’s staff and visitors.

The Whipsnade Zoo Crash: A Genetically Diverse Population

Benja’s father, Sizzle, has been an integral part of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), contributing to the creation of a genetically diverse and healthy backup population of southern white rhinos in conservation zoos like Whipsnade. Sizzle has sired an impressive 15 calves at the zoo, with his offspring producing 37 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren across Europe.

The Importance of Conservation Efforts

Southern white rhinos are classified as “near threatened” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species, primarily due to poaching for their valuable horns. The conservation efforts at Whipsnade Zoo, as part of the global charity ZSL, play a crucial role in protecting this iconic species and its habitat.

Visiting Whipsnade Zoo: Seeing the Southern White Rhinos

Visitors to Whipsnade Zoo can witness the southern white rhinos, including the newborn Benja, in the indoor dens at the White Rhino house. A family membership to the zoo offers excellent value, providing free admission for a year and the opportunity to create new memories with loved ones.

The Diversity of Rhinos at Whipsnade Zoo

In addition to the southern white rhinos, Whipsnade Zoo also houses greater one-horned rhinos, further showcasing the zoo’s commitment to conservation and the protection of endangered species.

Conclusion

Whipsnade Zoo’s southern white rhinos, including the newborn Benja, are a testament to the importance of conservation efforts and the role that zoos play in protecting endangered species. The zoo’s work, as part of the global charity ZSL, is crucial in safeguarding the future of these majestic creatures and their habitats.

References:
– BBC News Article on Benja’s Birth
– Whipsnade Zoo’s News on Benja’s Birth
– Whipsnade Zoo’s Page on Southern White Rhinos