White Rhino - Tom

I wonder when Tony will be put out with the girls, assuming it hasn't already happen.

Well now that Tom knows what is expected of him physically I doubt they will make the swap this summer. I think they will likely give him time with the girls to see if the better genetic match can produce calves. They might make the swap next summer if neither girl is pregnant.

Again, I'll try asking around during future visits. Earlier this summer, Keepers seems pretty adamant that Tony would get a chance. Maybe the higher-ups had a change of mind. I heard from someone that they did witness breeding this summer.

Tony was supposed to get a chance this summer if Tom didn't figure out how to breed. But since he has figured out the mechanics of breeding (I have heard proper breeding has been occuring with both females now) it is preferable for Tom to breed. He is the better genetic match for the girls. Tom, Zohari and Sabi are first generation North American born. All three are from imported parents. That makes them far more desirable to breed. And all three are first calves for their parents so they are the first in their line to start breeding. Tony on the other hand is from much older better represented stock. While breeding him isn't horrible, Tom has always been the preferred mate for the girls. He will produce the more genetically diverse and desirable calves.

I see. Well, figures crossed that the girls get successfully pregnant and give birth to healthy calves. Also, I remember a Keeper saying that if one or both girls have calves, no matter the situation, they'll continue to stay with each other. So, if each girl has a calf, that's two rhino calves on exhibit at the same time.

I'd love to see that.

I will be happy with a single calf. I will be elated with two. I have never seen a white rhino calf at the zoo. I do hope if there are calves that they are close in age because it will be far more fun to watch them playing together.