The Wilds Welcomes First Rhino Calf of 2026
CUMBERLAND, OH – The Wilds has welcomed its first rhino calf of 2026, marking another exciting chapter in more than two decades of animal care expertise and conservation breeding at the conservation center. The calf was born to Agnes, a southern white rhino, continuing a program that began with The Wilds’ first rhino calf in 2004.
Born on , 2026 at approximately 1 p.m., the male calf weighs approximately 100 pounds. Animal management teams are closely monitoring the pair as they bond and nurse, with early observations indicating strong maternal care.
“Agnes is an experienced, attentive mom, and it’s been rewarding to see her care for her new calf,” said Animal Management Specialist Cody Cseplo. “Moments like this offer an incredible glimpse into the daily care, patience, and dedication that go into supporting both the animals and the long-term success of the program.”
The calf’s sire is Bernard, who also resides at The Wilds. Pairings are recommended through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan® (SSP), which supports a healthy, genetically diverse population.
The Wilds is home to one of the largest multigenerational rhino herds in North America, the result of decades of collaborative population management. The program has seen the birth of fourth- and fifth-generation southern white rhinos, underscoring its long-term success in sustaining a multigenerational population. The Wilds also cares for greater one-horned rhinos, further expanding the conservation center’s role in global rhino conservation.
Southern white rhinos were nearly extinct in the early 1900s, with fewer than 100 remaining. Strategic protection and coordinated population management, including conservation breeding and translocations, helped the species rebound to tens of thousands and demonstrated the power of partnership-driven conservation. The Wilds plays a leading role in advancing rhino care and conservation in the United States.
“This birth reflects the strength of long-term planning, collaboration, and care across the organization,” said Dr. Joe Greathouse, vice president of The Wilds. “Each calf born here represents important progress toward sustaining a healthy, genetically diverse population and advancing conservation efforts for the species.”
This milestone highlights the important role of accredited zoological facilities like The Wilds, along with collaborative conservation programs, in safeguarding species facing ongoing pressures in their native ranges. While populations of southern white rhinos have grown in recent years thanks to conservation efforts, threats remain, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Coordinated conservation strategies, including professional, science-based population management, remain an important part of protecting rhinos for the future.
“Decades of teamwork and expertise are behind this moment,” said Dan Beetem, director of animal management. “Since 2004, each birth has helped build a strong, multigenerational herd that contributes to conservation efforts far beyond our pastures.”
This arrival is the first of two southern white calves expected this year at The Wilds. Guests hoping to catch a glimpse of the new calf can explore The Wilds through a variety of winter tours, including the Rhino Barn Tour and Winter Wildside Tour offered through April, with a full selection of tour options available May through October.
For those looking to extend their adventure, The Wilds offers a variety of unique overnight accommodations, including the new Hellbender RV Campground. For more information about tours, conservation initiatives, events, and educational opportunities, please visit TheWilds.org and follow The Wilds on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
