Rhino's are one of the most critically endangered animals on Earth and we need to learn more about them so we can aid their conservation. Below are our top 8 facts about these beautiful animals:
1. Their family tree goes back a lot further than yours
Rhinos are over 50 million years old. Their ancestors had a tendency to be slightly woollier than their modern day cousins, but they haven't changed much at all during this time!
2. They are very hospitable hosts
Rhinos have come to a mutually beneficial agreement with the Oxpecker bird. The birds eat ticks and other insects they find on the Rhino, and as well as this cleaning service if the birds sense danger they will cause a commotion, alerting the Rhino to the danger!
3. A group of Rhinos has an amazing name
Rather than just referring to them as a herd, a much more appropriate name for a group of Rhinos is a crash!
4. They have at least one similarity to humans
Rhino horn is made of Keratin which is the same protein human hair and fingernails are made of. The longest horn ever known was found on a Black Rhino and was 4 foot 9 inches long!
5. You might get confused by their individual names
Despite their names, White and Black Rhinos are actually grey. The White name came from English settlers in South Africa misinterpreting the Afrikaans word "weit" (which means wide and was referring to its mouth) for White and the name stuck. The name for the Black Rhino probably came from the dark mud which is normally covering their grey skin!
6. Their number are depleting rapidly
At the turn of the 20th century there was an estimated 500,000 Rhinos in the world. Now it's estimated that there are only 29,000 left in the wild. Things need to change quickly.
7. You wouldn't want to argue with one
Some of the biggest can grow to up to 13 feet long, so if you ever meet one then it's probably best not to wind him up.
8. Rhinos would make Usain Bolt look silly in a race
Rhinos can run up to 40 mph, meaning if you're ever unfortunate enough to be chased by one you should jump up a tree instead of running away!
Share this article with your friends and followers by using the social media buttons below.
Wanting to add something to this story or just let us know your thoughts? Just leave your comments below. Please be aware that all comments will be moderated: abusive behaviour or self-promotion will not be allowed.
Has this blog inspired you to volunteer? If so, why not enquire today? Simply fill out an enquiry form, and allow a member of our travel team to assist with your query! Please note that blog comments are not monitored by the travel team, so any questions related to bookings may be missed.
Come face to face with one of the world’s most misunderstood predators whilst aiding great white shark conservation. As a volunteer, not only will you get the incredible opportunity to dive with sharks, but you will also assist the team in raising awareness of the great white as you work alongside tourists and local school children to provide them with knowledge of the local environment and the importance of living in harmony with South Africa’s marine life.
Lauren and James have returned and are ready to relay tales...
Team members Lauren and James, joined colleague Georgia to...
Volunteer Lynne Coe shares her valuable tips on what to...
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Borneo...
The Great Projects volunteer coordinators, Matt and Niamh,...
The Great Projects' volunteer coordinators Matt and Niamh...
As the Samboja Lestari Orangutan Project begins once again...
Inge volunteered at the Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary in...