
The Great Rhinos!
At Al Ain Zoo, we are all about going big or going home! And when it comes to size, we've got one of the largest land mammals in the house! Meet one of the Big 5 and the second-largest land mammal on earth - the mighty Rhinoceros! Have you ever wondered how this magnificent creature got its name? Let us enlighten you. As you might have guessed, it's all about the horn! Rhinoceros is derived from the Greek words "rhino," which means nose, and "ceros," which means horn. So, the name "Rhinoceros" literally translates to "nose-horn."
Despite their enormous size, you may be surprised to learn that Rhinos are herbivores. These gentle giants prefer to munch on grass and plants, making them nature’s ultimate lawnmowers! And when it comes to hobbies, Rhinos love nothing more than getting muddy and mucky. Rolling around in the mud helps to cool them off in hot weather and provides a protective layer against the sun’s harmful rays and pesky biting insects; think of it like a daily skincare routine!
While there are five species of Rhinos in the world, Al Ain Zoo is home to Southern White Rhinos. And thanks to years of dedicated conservation efforts and the highest level of care, our Rhinos are thriving! We are proud to announce that our zoo has welcomed a new baby Rhino! Born in March 2023, her name is Thandy, which means "Loved one" in Zulu. Thandy will soon join her family and fill Al Ain Safari. Take the chance to see how she acts!
At Al Ain Zoo, the conservation of these magnificent creatures is of utmost importance. By providing them with a safe and nurturing environment, we are not only ensuring their survival but also helping to educate the public about the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity. So, visit us and see our Rhinos up close and personal. We guarantee it will be an unforgettable experience!