At eight weeks old and tipping the scales at 200 kilograms, southern white rhino calf Jabulani has made his debut in Melbourne’s Werribee Open Range Zoo. Born after a 16-month pregnancy, Jabulani has been bonding with his mother Kipenzi and other members of the crash in a keeper-only area. The name Jabulani is a Zulu word meaning “bringing joy” or “rejoice”, fitting for the adorable rhino calf who is now exploring the zoo’s African-inspired savannah alongside giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and antelopes. Zoo officials have nurtured Jabulani closely to ensure he is ready for this moment, with life sciences manager Dominic Moss noting that visitors can expect to see the calf sticking close to his mother and the other rhinos initially, but gradually venturing out on his own to explore his surroundings. As a typical rhino calf, Jabulani will engage in playful “zoomies” and take plenty of naps while acclimating to his new habitat.
Rapidly growing from 55 kilograms at birth to 200 kilograms in just a few months, Jabulani is the first successfully raised southern white rhino calf to be born in Victoria in over 20 years. His mother, an 11-year-old rhino, and his father, 15-year-old Kifaru, are both attentive to their newest family member, ensuring he is well cared for and supported as he navigates his surroundings. Known for their gentle nature and close bonding with their young, southern white rhinos are a critical species to conserve, as they are facing threats of poaching and habitat loss. By successfully raising Jabulani, Werribee Open Range Zoo is contributing to the conservation efforts of this vulnerable species, providing a safe and nurturing environment for him to thrive.
The public can now observe Jabulani growing and learning alongside his rhino family, who serve as his protectors as he begins to explore the vast savannah. With zookeepers closely monitoring his development, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the calf’s playful behaviors and natural instincts as he adapts to his new surroundings. As he becomes more independent, Jabulani will gradually venture further from his mother and the other rhinos, demonstrating his natural curiosity and inquisitive nature. The zoo’s expansive 30 hectares of African-inspired habitat provide ample space for Jabulani and the other animals to roam freely and engage in their natural behaviors, creating an enriching environment for both the animals and visitors.
As one of the most successful conservation programs in Australia, Werribee Open Range Zoo plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species like the southern white rhino. By successfully breeding and raising Jabulani, the zoo is contributing to the long-term survival of this vulnerable species, offering hope for a brighter future for rhinos in the wild. With the ongoing threats of poaching and habitat destruction, the conservation efforts of zoos and wildlife reserves are more important than ever in safeguarding the future of endangered species. Through education and public awareness, zoos like Werribee Open Range Zoo are able to engage visitors in conservation initiatives and inspire them to take action to protect wildlife and their habitats.
Jabulani’s presence at the zoo serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting endangered species for future generations. As visitors observe the playful antics and natural behaviors of this adorable rhino calf, they are given a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the need for conservation efforts. By supporting initiatives like the breeding and raising of Jabulani, individuals can contribute to the global efforts to save endangered species from extinction, ensuring a world where rhinos and other vulnerable animals can thrive in the wild. With the continued dedication of zoos, conservation organizations, and wildlife enthusiasts, there is hope for a future where endangered species like the southern white rhino can flourish and thrive in their natural habitats.
