Blog Archive

While ANZAC Day is celebrated across the country it bears a double significance at Monarto Zoo, marking the birth of its Southern White Rhinoceros, Digger, named in remembrance of this important day.

Born on April 25, 2011, weighing just 45 kilograms, Digger has grown dramatically over the past 12 months now tipping the scales at 720 kilos.

He may be the Zoo’s biggest baby but Ungulate Keeper Tom Hurley said he’s doing his best not to act like one, developing bull like behaviours and a cheeky attitude toward his elders.

“Digger is becoming more independent every day, marking his territory and even sparring with Mum, Umquali, and Aunty, Uhura.” Tom said.

“The girls tolerate this to a certain extent but aren’t afraid to put him back in his place if he gets too boisterous!”

Following the celebration of his first birthday, there are some important milestones to come for Digger who will be totally weaned in the next 6 to 12 months, becoming a fully grazing animal.

Digger’s next big adventure will be to move away from his home at Monarto to start a family of his own in another Zoo. This is an important step as his genetics are vital to the region.

“Digger’s Mum, Umquali, was wild caught from Kruger National Park in 2002. Because of this his genetics are hugely important to the regional breeding program he will one day become a part of.”  Tom said.

With just 20,150 left in the wild, the major threat facing Southern White Rhinoceros is poaching for their horns, which are of high value on the black market.