PHOTOS: New Southern White Rhino Stomps into Brevard Zoo

Brevard Zoo welcomed 5,200-pound, 16-year-old Frankie earlier this month. The southern white rhinoceros came from a private facility in central Florida.

Frankie made his appearance in a big way: he was transported into the Zoo on a massive trailer provided by Four C’s Nursery. Guests will be able to visit Frankie in the upcoming weeks when he joins females Uzuri and Kibibi in Expedition Africa. Male Howard will alternate being visible to guests with Frankie.

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Having sired five offspring since 2010, Frankie is part of the white rhino Species Survival Plan breeding program with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. His genetics were determined to be a good complement to the Zoo’s females’.

Southern white rhinos were thought to be extinct in the late 19th century; however, after over 100 years of protection and management, the species is now classified as “near threatened.” The main challenges facing white rhinos include habitat loss and human hunting; they are often poached for their horns due to the false belief that the appendage has medicinal value.

Frankie is known for his gentle attitude toward his keepers and enjoys interacting with enrichment.

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