Zina was paired with Sibindi through the Species Survival Plan (SSP) through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to ensure the survival of these protected species. This species remains classified as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature IUCN) due to threats in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal poaching of their horns. Sibindi and Bora will have access to both the barn and their outdoor habitat.
Mom and baby will stay indoors for Keepers to monitor the two and their bond over the next several weeks. Zina and her calf can be seen in the rhino’s night barn. Sibindi, 18, Zina, 8, Bora, 7, and now the new male calf. This brings the rhino count to four at the Zoo. From the moment she gave birth, she has shown signs of good mothering instincts and has been very attentive to her calf. This is a historic event for the Zoo as this calf is the first of its species to be born at the Virginia Zoo, but also for first-time mom, Zina.
The exam confirmed the calf is a male, weighed in at approximately 125 pounds and stands 22 inches tall and 36 inches long. Tara Reilly, with the assistance of Keepers and Veterinary Technicians. Animal care staff report the calf is strong, nursing well and is bonding with Mom.Ī neonatal exam was performed 36 hours after the calf was born by the Zoo’s Veterinarian, Dr. The Virginia Zoo is proud to announce the historic birth of its first-ever Southern white rhinoceros, born to mom, Zina, and dad, Sibindi, on Sunday, July 11, 2021.
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