It tends to be forgotten just how well ZSL did with the two pairs of Black Rhino imported from Kenya in 1964. Between them they produced ten calves in twenty-four years at London and Whipsnade, a success that sadly wasn't built on.
Sadly I think only about two out of the ten survived to full adulthood, though those that died nearly all did so after leaving ZSL's care. I rather think some were removed at far too early an age though, usually between one and two years of age.
For example; by the date the calf in this photo is 'Joanna' (parents Paul x June) born ZSL in November 1972 and sent to Paignton October 1973 to make up a fresh pair with male 'Jasper born at Chester in 1971, so she was not even one year old when parted from the mother while 'Jasper' was just nearly two. Must be very stressful for both mother and calf in an animal that retains longstanding maternal bonds. 'Joanna' had already died at Paignton just three months later (Jan1974). 'Jasper' was transferred to Port Lympne some years later as a mature adult, but he never bred there- they think he was infertile.
The only ZSL- born black rhinos that survived to full maturity were Esther(born London) and Parky(born Whipsnade) which went as a pair to Chester, and 'Rosie' the last calf at ZSL which was handraised. Another pair 'Kes' and Katie' died at Marwell as subadults.
