November 2007
Less than a month old and the newest arrival at Whipsnade Wild Animal Park already weighs a healthy 70kg - he's a baby Asian one-horned Rhino.
With keepers and veterinary staff already expecting the birth and standing by, the baby rhino arrived on November 5th and is the first for mother Beluki who was in labour for only two and a half hours. With his distinctive armour-plated skin the young rhino was up on his feet in just three hours and walking around after two more. A very impressive start for an impressive animal.
The Asian one-horned Rhino is a very rare species and the latest arrival is a huge boost for the species and for Whipsnade Wild Animal Park. On New Year's Eve 2006 as most were out celebrating the New Year the zoo was celebrating the arrival of Asha who was the first Asian one horned Rhino born there for 17 years. The arrival of the new male in November is good news for the park's breeding scheme.
ZSL curator Malcolm Fitzpatrick stated: "Our second Asian rhino calf in the space of a year is excellent news for ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. Mother and calf are doing very well."
The young male calf is still enjoying the snug warmth of the indoor barn but visitors can get a great view on TV monitor outside the Asian rhino house. For your opportunity to see the fascinating animals that live at Whipsnade Wild Animal Park, book your short family break with Holiday Extras today.