Auckland Zoo euthanises elderly rhino Zambezi

Auckland Zoo has euthanised its elderly rhino, Zambezi, due to age-related health conditions.

The 36-year-old Southern white rhino relocated to Auckland from Hamilton Zoo in 2007.

Auckland Zoo Veterinarian Dr Adam Naylor said Zambezi's dental disease had made it difficult for him to eat.

"We've been able to maintain Zambezi's welfare through a combination of dental procedures, medication, husbandry, and dietary support. However, over a number of months, we have seen a deterioration in his dental health, he has had increased difficulty eating, and his body condition has gradually declined as a result.

Dr Naylor as Zambezi was approaching the end of his natural lifespan, vet and keeper teams have monitored him very closely in recent years.

"As part of his care, he has received regular health assessments with the support of veterinary dental specialists. Dental disease is a common age-related health issue in rhinos; a result of continuous chewing and years of cumulative wear, particularly in long-lived individuals."

Dr Naylor said that euthanasia before Zambezi started to suffer was the most humane option.

"It's never an easy decision to do this, and one we never take lightly, but, by acting now, we have been able to give him a peaceful and dignified end to his life."

With adult female Jamila, he had three offspring females Nyah (5) and Amali (3), and male Zuka (1) at the zoo.

Last week, the zoo euthanised its last subantarctic seal.

It said it could not maintain the environment needed for the 20-year-old named Ōrua, who was nearing the end of his life span.

Auckland Zoo's Ungulates team leader Michael Hepher said it had been a tough few weeks for them.

"It's been a devastating time for the zoo with a couple of losses in recent weeks. Ōrua the seal and then Zambezi the white rhino. These losses are huge and do hit staff, guests, and volunteers."

He said Zambezi was one of the zoo's oldest animals.

"He's been an extremely special animal to Auckland Zoo and has been a huge part of its history for many years."

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