BREAKING NEWS: Jabulani, the beloved rhino calf at Werribee Open Range Zoo, has just begun to grow his horns, marking an exciting milestone in his development. This remarkable calf, born in August 2024, is the first rhino in Victoria to be successfully raised by his mother in over 20 years, and his growth is capturing the attention of animal lovers everywhere.
Zoo savannah keeper Alison Edwards shared the thrilling news, stating, “Rhinos are born without horns, but they start to grow as they age.” Jabulani’s primary horn has already emerged, and the second horn is beginning to develop, a significant indicator of his health and maturity.
“The first sign of growth is the skin getting rough and lumpy, followed by what looks like a pimple erupting!” Ms. Edwards explained, emphasizing the unique nature of each rhino’s horn, which is made of keratin—similar to human hair and nails.
At just one year old, Jabulani weighs an impressive 730 kg, roughly equivalent to 250 domestic cats. He is growing at a rapid rate, gaining approximately two kilos per day since his birth. Ms. Edwards noted, “Even with all that remarkable growth, he’s still staying close by mum and his eight tonnes of rhino family ‘bodyguards.’”
The horns of white rhinos can reach lengths of up to 1.5 metres for the front horn and 55 centimetres for the rear. They continuously grow like fingernails, though natural behaviors such as digging and sparring often limit their length. This growth is not just a physical transformation but also a symbol of hope for rhino conservation efforts worldwide.
Jabulani’s journey reflects a significant stride in wildlife preservation. His health and progress serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures from threats such as poaching and habitat loss. The Werribee Open Range Zoo continues to lead the charge in rhino conservation, providing a safe haven for these animals.
As Jabulani continues to grow and develop, keep an eye on Werribee Open Range Zoo for more updates. His story is not just about the growth of horns but about a future where rhinos can thrive in their natural habitat, inspiring others to support conservation efforts.
What’s Next? Zoo officials will continue to monitor Jabulani’s growth and development closely, with plans to share more updates on his progress. The zoo encourages visitors to engage with this inspiring story and witness the incredible journey of Jabulani and his family.
Stay tuned for further developments as Jabulani’s story unfolds, and join the conversation about the importance of wildlife conservation today.
