San Diego Zoo Gives Irresistible Close-up of Their New Baby Rhino
Recently, a camera crew visited San Diego Zoo to film the zoo's newest 'tank' baby, an adorable baby rhinoceros and his mom. They shared a video of the adventure on Thursday, March 21st, and it will make you smile!
The crew's day starts out first thing in the morning and they venture out in the bed of a truck looking for mom Joona and baby. They ran across some other rhinos "doing their best hippo impression", but no sign of the baby. Watch what happens when the crew finally finds the two...not only do they get a very warm greeting from them, but they also snap some amazing photos, too!
Joona and baby were so comfortable being around the camera crew. It's like they were coming right up to them to say hello! San Diego Zoo commenters loved seeing the baby. @SHAYLA asked, "Is this the same baby rhino you guys had last year?" and the zoo responded, "You may be thinking of Neville, the southern white rhino. This is a new greater one horned rhino tiny tank!" Another commenter said, "Tank Puppies are one the most adorable babies on the planet!" And I couldn't help but laugh when @Grace Leighton said, "She was hoping you brought snacks LOL!"
Related: Mama Rhinoceros Shows off Her Adorable New Baby in Irresistible Video
Cool Rhino Facts
Do you know what a group of rhinos is called? The name is a fun one: A group of rhinos is called a 'crash'. It's pretty fitting given their size, and because they can't see very well, which often leads them to 'attack' rocks and trees that they think may be predators.
It's clear from watching the TikTok that rhinos have thick, tough skin, but believe it or not, it's actually very sensitive. To protect themselves from sunburns (yes, they can get sunburned!) and insect bites, rhinos roll around in the mud for an additional coat of protection. When the mud dries, it protects them from both.
There are other benefits of covering themselves in mud. A mud bath can help to cool their skin down and keep it moisturized and works to remove dead skin cells. Rhinos also protect their skin in an unusual way: by befriending oxpeckers. This 8-inch-long bird has a wide bill, stiff tail, and sharp claws. They eat ticks and other insects off of the rhino's body in exchange for a free ride. You might wonder why a bird would need a ride, and by being on the rhino's back that can more easily find food on the ground. Oxpeckers have this symbiotic relationship with other animals as well like hippos, zebras, oxen, and antelopes.
I'll definitely be keeping an eye on the zoo's feed for more adorable updates up the newest tank puppy.... he's beyond adorable!
Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
