Yesterday afternoon, the long-awaited birth of Kwanza the rhinoceros took place, a milestone for the Valencian animal park and a source of hope for the conservation program of this endangered species. With due caution, the striking and tender images from the first few hours offer a glimmer of optimism, thanks to the attentive behavior of the first-time mother and the innate instincts of the precious baby rhino, seeking maternal warmth and essential milk.
“We have a rhinoceros!” This shout of joy, followed by hugs (and a few tears) from the BIOPARC Valencia technical team, marks a landmark in this nature parkAs the previous day's hormonal data indicated and was confirmed that morning, there was only one thing to do: wait. Watching the screens displaying images from the indoor enclosure where, as a precaution, the first-time mother had been kept, they heard "she's coming" with every movement of Kwanza. Her restless behavior indicated contractions, and the placenta began to be visible. The minutes seemed like hours, and, as happens in this first moment of our wondrous nature, life arrived.
Video: This is how the first white rhinoceros was born at BIOPARC Valencia.
Yesterday afternoon, Tuesday, on the 491st day of gestation, BIOPARC Valencia experienced with all the excitement and "live" the birth of the first white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). A This event represents hope for this endangered species. due to the atrocious poaching for the coveted horn. And a success for all the staff who for 18 years have been working and applying all their scientific knowledge and experience in the International Conservation Program for this species in which the animal park participates.
Calmness and utmost caution regarding the evolution of the "baby rhinoceros".
Both the delivery and the first few hours are progressing normally. The mother gives him all the attention he needs and the "baby rhinoceros" is livelyThe baby got up within minutes of being born and moved around, following its instinct, seeking refuge and warmth from its mother. Non-invasive, remote monitoring continues, confirming that the baby is breastfeeding. Specialists in its care have only entered the space to provide comfort and convenience, gathering more straw and any other necessary items.
The first few days are crucial and it's worth Apply serenity and utmost caution typical of this situation, constantly maintaining vigilance and monitoring protocols for the evolution of mother and offspringFor the time being, they will remain in their enclosures, awaiting integration with the other rhinos: Martin, the male and father of the calf, and the other females, Nombula and Ami. It is important to emphasize the natural behavior of the group formed in 2023, with a healthy social dynamic manifested in courtship displays and numerous matings, resulting in the first pregnancy and a happy outcome.
His birth occurred under the influence of the full moon.
Another fact that has not gone unnoticed is the proximity of the full moon. If The analyses have confirmed the empirical partOur precious satellite seems to have once again been crucial, as happened with the elephant Makena (who will turn 3 this Sunday) and His birth occurred under the influence of the full moonThe possible influence on mammal births also occurred with several zebras, so, whether it is a "legend" or not, yesterday the moon in Valencia shone brightly anticipating today's supermoon, the largest of all of 2025.
