Baby Rhino Born at Indianapolis Zoo on Super Bowl Sunday
Indianapolis, IN – The Indianapolis Zoo welcomed a special addition to its family on Super Bowl Sunday: a beautiful white rhinoceros calf. The birth of this rhino calf has brought joy to the city, especially after the disappointment of the Indianapolis Colts missing out on the Super Bowl.
The proud mother, Zenzele, who is 19 years old, gave birth around 9:15 a.m. local time, according to the Indianapolis Zoo. This is Zenzele’s seventh calf, but the first baby rhino born at the zoo. The senior rhinoceros keeper, Amber Berndt, expressed her delight and mentioned that Zenzele is an experienced and confident mother, taking excellent care of her newborn.
The sex of the baby rhino has not yet been disclosed by the zoo, but keepers assure that both Zenzele and her calf are doing well. Zenzele is relaxed, and the calf is thriving under her care. This adorable addition brings the zoo’s rhino population to a herd of five, including Spike, Mambo, and Gloria, who also happens to be Zenzele’s grandmother. Zenzele and her calf will have time to bond before they are introduced to the rest of the herd in the spring.
Kengele, the father of the calf, resides at The Wilds, which serves as the American Institute of Rhinoceros Science’s home base. Zenzele had previously lived at The Wilds in Ohio until she arrived at the Indianapolis Zoo in June. The zoo staff describes Zenzele as laid back, outgoing, and curious. She enjoys human interaction and appreciates affectionate pets and scratches.
It is worth mentioning that white rhino pregnancies last for an amazing 16 to 18 months. Newborns typically weigh between 100 and 150 pounds, which is quite impressive.
Southern white rhinos, such as Zenzele and her calf, are categorized as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Although they are not considered endangered like the other rhino species, their wild population is still decreasing. The Indianapolis Zoo’s President and CEO, Dr. Robert Shumaker, hopes that the birth of this calf will raise awareness about the conservation of rhinoceroses globally and serve as a symbol of hope for their future.
The zoo had already shared news about Zenzele’s pregnancy last month, and with her imminent labor, the rhinoceros care staff initiated overnight monitoring. Once Zenzele started producing milk and showing signs of labor, keepers knew the birth was imminent and prepared to offer any necessary assistance.
The birth of this white rhinoceros calf is indeed a cause for celebration, reminding us of the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures. With their declining numbers in the wild, every birth is vital for the survival of this species. The Indianapolis Zoo’s conservation efforts play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting the preservation of rhinoceroses worldwide.
In conclusion, the Indianapolis Zoo has welcomed its first baby rhino, bringing hope and joy to the city. This significant event serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect and conserve rhinoceros populations globally. With Zenzele as a loving and experienced mother, we anticipate the calf will grow up strong and healthy under the zoo’s care. The Indianapolis Zoo’s dedication to rhinoceros conservation is commendable and inspires others to join the mission of safeguarding these magnificent creatures.
