Rhinos, short for rhinoceroses, are large, thick-skinned herbivorous mammals that belong to the family Rhinocerotidae. They are characterized by one or two horns on their snouts, which are made of keratin, the same material as human hair and nails. There are five extant species of rhinos: the white rhinoceros, black rhinoceros, Indian rhinoceros, Javan rhinoceros, and Sumatran rhinoceros. Rhinos are primarily found in Africa and Southeast Asia and inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, grasslands, and forests.
Despite their size and formidable appearance, rhinos are generally solitary animals, though some species, like the white rhino, may form small groups. They are known for their poor eyesight, but have a keen sense of smell and hearing. Rhinos are critical to their ecosystems as they help shape the environment by grazing on vegetation, which promotes a variety of plant species and supports other wildlife.
Unfortunately, rhinos are endangered due to poaching for their horns, which are highly valued in some cultures for traditional medicine and as status symbols, as well as habitat loss. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their survival in the wild.
A lively male white rhino calf was born at Normandy's Cerza Safari Park, capturing attention with his playful demeanor. The calf, born to mother Beth after a 16-month gestation, marks…