Melbourne Zoo Welcomes Rare Rhino Calf
- New male southern white rhino calf born at Werribee Open Range Zoo in Melbourne.
- The newborn calf belongs to a near-threatened species and will be named through a public competition in the upcoming weeks.
- This successful birth contributes to the conservation efforts for the southern white rhino population.
A southern white rhino at Werribee Open Range Zoo in Melbourne has given birth to a male calf, marking a significant event for the endangered species. Dr. Mark Pilgrim, the zoo's director, praised the new mother, Kipenzi, for her nurturing instincts, stating, “It’s just incredible to see her mothering instincts coming out.” This is Kipenzi's second calf; her first, born in March 2022, faced bonding challenges. In the days following the birth, Kipenzi and her newborn have been closely monitored in a secluded area of the zoo, allowing them to bond without disturbances. Dr. Pilgrim noted that Kipenzi is actively caring for her calf, ensuring he stays close and safe. “She’s doing her best to shepherd it and keep it close to her,” he remarked, highlighting the mother rhino's protective behavior. Kipenzi, who was born at the zoo in 2013, was hand-reared due to her mother Sisi's overprotectiveness. The new calf will soon be named through a public voting competition, engaging the community in this joyful occasion. The southern white rhino is classified as near-threatened, with an estimated population of only 10,080 remaining in the wild. The birth of this calf is part of the Australasian Southern White Rhino Breeding Program, aimed at conserving this vulnerable species and ensuring its survival for future generations.