SOUTHERN WHITE RHINOCEROS
Ceratotherium simum simum
DESCRIPTION
The Southern White Rhinoceros is one of the largest species of rhinoceros and is known for its wide mouth, which is adapted for grazing. It is a social animal that often forms groups, primarily consisting of females and their young.
FUN FACTS
- Southern White Rhinos can run at speeds of up to 40 km/h | They have a very keen sense of smell but poor eyesight | Their horns are made of keratin, the same material as human hair and nails
QUICK INFO
Lifespan40-50 years in the wild, up to 60 in captivity
Average Weight1,800-2,500 kg
Average Length3.4-4.2 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — typically consists of females and their young, while males are more solitary.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round
- Habitat
- They inhabit savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. These areas provide ample grazing opportunities and cover for protection.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland
- Native Range
- Historically found throughout southern Africa, they are now primarily located in protected areas in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Kenya
- Diet
- Southern White Rhinos are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses. They have a preference for short grasses found in savanna habitats.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses
- Social Structure
- group — typically consists of females and their young, while males are more solitary.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-15
- Territorial
- 1
VU
1,800-2,500 kg
Weight
3.4-4.2 m
Length
1.5-1.8 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- grayish-brown with a thick skin that appears wrinkled.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger than females
- Lifespan
- 40-50 years in the wild, up to 60 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- approximately 16 months
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round
VU
Vulnerable
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population has been recovering due to conservation efforts, but they remain vulnerable.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 18,000-20,000
- Population Trend
- Increasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- The main threats include poaching for their horns and habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and human settlement.
- Conservation Program
- Various anti-poaching initiatives and protected reserves in southern Africa.
- Predators
- humans are the primary threat; young rhinos may be vulnerable to lions and crocodiles.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their size and strength for defense, and can charge at threats.
- Compatible Animals
- none
- Found in Zoos
- Common