Southern White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium Simum Research Articles

Observations on Southern White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum Translocated to Uganda

Translocation is increasingly common in conservation but remains controversial due, in part, to limited information. Here, in a brief study, we consider the translocation of the southern white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum to a fenced 64-km2 reserve in Uganda (a replacement for the locally extinct native northern subspecies, Ceratotherium simum cottoni). We examined the condition, behavior, and habitat use of two female-calf groups. Rhinos were least active during the early afternoon. Both groups spent more time feeding in Microchloa kunthii grasslands than expected given the small extent of such areas but spent most time in the more abundant woodlands and Hyparrhenia grasslands. The small ranges of the two groups, 11.8 and 9.0 km2 (100 h of observations over a 1-month period in 2011), and their apparent good health suggest satisfactory feeding conditions. Reassuringly, we identify no concerns but also note that our judgments are constrained by limited information and guidance. There is scope for novel observations, for example, our observations suggest that mothers lead calves more frequently in habitats with reduced visibility versus more open habitats. Every translocation is an experiment, but lessons will be lost without greater emphasis on transparency and assessments.

Analysis of the European captive Southern white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum population using the International Studbook for the African White Rhinoceros (2001–2004) and integrating reproductive health findings

The goal of ex situ conservation is to maintain genetic diversity, avoid inbreeding and maximize equal representation of founder individuals. Analysis of a well‐maintained studbook yields important data concerning fertility and mortality that is invaluable to ex situ conservation. To evaluate the reproductive status of the European captive Southern white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum population, basic demographics and population parameters were calculated using the International Studbook for the African White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum (2001–2004) data with the integration of recent scientific findings regarding reproductive health of individuals within the ‘reproductive age’. Kinship analysis of the 2001–2004 population was also performed to evaluate genetic diversity. Results indicated the population is declining 1·19 times faster than it is growing. To realize a 1% population increase at the 2001–2004 death rate, reproduction would have to increase by 214%. It is necessary to increase the genetically contributing subpopulation and to achieve a reproduction capacity that surpasses the rate currently possible with natural mating.

Facilitation of boma adaptation of an injured subadult male Southern white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum via introduction to an adult male

Facilitation of boma adaptation of an injured subadult male Southern white rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum via introduction to an adult male