Rhinoceros facts!
Start here for quick facts about rhinos!
Here is the first thing about rhinos that surprises most people: You probably think of Africa when you think of rhinos. But did you know there are actually more species of Asian Rhinos? That's right! The Black Rhino and White Rhino are the only species of rhinoceros in Africa. The Asian Rhino species include the Greater One-Horned (Indian) Rhino, Javan Rhino, and Sumatran Rhino.
Here are a few more facts about rhinos:
- Rhinos have excellent senses of smell and hearing. However, they do not see very well.
- Because their sense of smell is so important, rhinos communicate with each other using their dung (poop) and even spraying their urine (pee)!
- Rhinos are fast! Even the 4,000 lb White Rhino can run up to 30 mph for short distances.
- Rhinos are smart! Rhinos in zoos are trained using treats and positive reinforcement. They need to be trained to accept handling and examinations. Rhinos can also learn to paint, to help keep their minds active in captivity.
- Rhinos have three toes on each foot. They are called "three-toed ungulates." Each toe is covered with a hoof-like nail.
Photos of a White Rhino having his feet brushed. - The rhino's horn is made of keratin - like fingernails and hair. The rhino's horn is not medicine; that is just a myth.
What kind of rhino am I? |
Three toes on each foot! |
