Vienna, Austria – Two Indian rhinoceroses at Schoenbrunn Zoo are marking 20 years as ambassadors for their endangered species after arriving at the zoo on March 11, 2006.

Their story began dramatically. According to curator Rupert Kainradl, MSc, the animals were discovered without their mothers, who had been killed by poachers. They were raised at an orphaned animal sanctuary in Chitwan National Park in Nepal. Because the young rhinos became too accustomed to people, they could no longer be resocialized and were later transferred to Schoenbrunn.

Today the pair lives in a 6,000 square meter enclosure together with Vietnamese sika deer, nilgai and blackbuck.

At the zoo, the Indian rhinoceroses are cared for by an experienced team of keepers. Head keeper Christoph Groeger explained that they are among the most impressive animals at the facility and are managed using protected contact techniques due to their strength.

The animals are trained for everyday routines and potential medical examinations. Keeper Daniel Fuchs, who has looked after them for 16 years, said the training teaches them actions such as opening their mouths so their teeth can be checked or presenting their feet so injuries on the soles can be identified early.

Most of their day is spent eating, sleeping, wallowing and bathing. Since 2022 they have also had access to a newly built pond. According to Fuchs, there are occasionally “crazy minutes” when they run energetically around the enclosure.

The rhinos are also part of scientific research. Dr. Martina Heiderer studied their curiosity and possible enrichment methods for zoo rhinos in her diploma thesis. Now working as a zoo educator, she raises awareness among visitors about protecting rhinos and other endangered species.

Indian rhinoceroses are now found only in parts of India and Nepal, where about 4,000 animals remain. Zoo Director Dr. Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck noted that protecting their habitat benefits many other species as well.

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