Rhino bull Kito leaves Hanover: A new phase of life in Rotterdam!

Rhino bull Kito leaves Hanover: A new phase of life in Rotterdam!

A move is coming up at Hannover Zoo: bull rhino Kito is being sent on his journey to Rotterdam after almost eight years. The gentle giant is accompanied by a trusted zookeeper, ensuring that Kito's transition goes as smoothly as possible. The move is not only a spatial change, but also part of the European Endangered Species Program (EEP) for the endangered eastern black rhinoceros.

Kito, who came to Hanover from Berlin in 2017, has had an eventful time in the capital of Lower Saxony. After the death of his partner Sany in 2022, he lives with his close relative Maisha. But this constellation ruled out reproduction, so it's now time for Kito to get together with the rhinoceros Naima in Rotterdam.

Kito's new phase of life

The move to Rotterdam had been planned for a long time. The decision didn't come overnight; Rather, it represents part of a larger strategy for the conservation of the species. The aim of the EEPs, which have become increasingly important since the 1990s, is targeted and coordinated breeding in zoos. These measures are intended to help maintain healthy and genetically diverse populations and thus combat the threat of extinction.

Current figures show that in the 1990s there were only around 500 eastern black rhinos left in the wild. Thanks to committed nature conservation measures and programs such as the EEP, this number has now been increased to over 1,000 animals in Africa. This is a real success and shows that every contribution counts to enable future generations to preserve these majestic animals.

The role of conservation breeding programs

The EEP is not only responsible for Kito's move, but also plays a crucial role in global wildlife conservation. A targeted focus on endangered species and maintaining a stable gene pool are essential aspects of these programs. Each EEP is looked after by a specific zoo, which has a local coordinator who keeps the breeding book and thus ensures the necessary genetic diversity. These programs are one of the pillars of the population management structure of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA).

The Hanover Zoo is not remaining idle either. In order not to leave Maisha alone after Kito's departure, the zoo plans to bring back a bull rhino from Rotterdam this year. So the hope for a harmonious community of animals in Hanover Zoo remains. The comprehensive conservation measures show that a good hand for the future is being demonstrated here.

The developments surrounding Kito and the EEPs remind us of the importance of actively protecting rare species and that collaboration across national borders is essential to ensure the continued existence of these fascinating creatures.

For anyone who would like to find out more about the topic, further information can be found on the website News38, Voucher newspaper as well as EAZA.