Black Rhino Calf

A Black Rhino calf is born at Taronga Western Plains Zoo as staff at Taronga’s Wildlife hospital work to save two orphaned Powerful Owl chicks. A seal undergoes cataract surgery at Sea World while Adelaide Zoo awaits the arrival of some very special Giant Pandas.

Mum Bakhita the Black Rhinoceros gave birth without any problems in the early hours of the morning. Bakhita is being a great first time mum and she is bonding well with her calf.

The calf has been named Kufara meaning “happiness” in the African Shona language. Kufara is extreemly confident and now even takes bananas from keepers hands.

Black Rhinoceros Keeper, Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Section/animals worked with:

Most species in zoo I have worked with but have spent majority of time working with the Black Rhinos since 1995.  

How long have you been working as a zookeeper?

Senior Veterinarian, Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Before coming to Taronga Western Plains Zoo Benn began his veterinary career working with domestic animals for 8 years.

How long have you been working as a zookeeper/vet/vet nurse?

I have been a vet for 8 years and have worked exclusively with zoo, wild and exotic animals for the last 4.5 years.

How did you get into zookeeping/vet/vet nursing as a profession?

After finishing high school, I completed a 3 year zoology degree which stimulated my interest