A Face Only A Mother Could Love: Zoo Welcomes Baby White Rhino

SEMINOLE HEIGHTS, FL -- It may not rank among ZooTampa's cutest babies, but this baby southern white rhino is a thing of beauty for conservationists trying to save the endangered species.

The calf born Sept. 12 is the sixth successful southern rhino birth in the zoo's history and represents a coup for conservation organizations attempting to repopulate the dying rhino species.

After bonding with mom Alake, the calf will be introduced to the rest of the rhino herd.

“ZooTampa is deeply committed to the species’ continued survival, both at home and beyond. Every birth brings hope to the continued conservation of this incredible species.” said Chris Massaro, general curator at ZooTampa at Lowry Park.

The zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Rhino Taxon Advisory Group, which includes the Southern White Rhino Species Survival Plan. Over the past 20 years, ZooTampa has contributed $100,000 to conservation projects, such as anti-poaching and habitat repair and restoration efforts in Africa.

The majority of southern white rhinos live in just four countries in Africa: Kenya, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Their unique body is characterized by a pronounced hump and two horns at the ends of its muzzle, used to defend against its predators and establish social dominance.

Record numbers of rhinos have been killed by poachers due to the high demand for keratin, a protein found in rhino horn that is believed to have medicinal properties. The northern white rhino, a relative of the southern white rhino, has been considered extinct in the wild, with only two remaining in professional care.

This rhino birth continues the zoo’s baby boom which last month saw the birth of a rare, endangered okapi.

Guests may catch a glimpse of the rhino calf on the zoo’s safari tram ride, included with daily admission. To get an even closer look, guests can also add on a white rhino encounter starting at $10.

The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa, and is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours for select events. Parking is free. For more, click here.

Images via ZooTampa

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