Disney News

Baby Rhino Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park to Mom Kendi

Denise ,  ,  , 

Hi everyone!

Disney shared today that a baby male white rhino was born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park early this morning. Rhinoceros Kendi gave birth, she is featured this season on the wonderful show Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom on Disney+.

There isn’t too much information given about the baby rhino yet, but generally a rhino calf can weigh 140 pounds at birth. The baby was nursing, standing and walking within the first hour after birth. In a few weeks, we should see the baby join the herd after bonding backstage with mom.

Kendi and dad Dugan were paired through the Species Survival Plans, which are overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to ensure the responsible breeding of endangered species. Disney says, White rhinos are an endangered species with a near-threatened status. Some of their adventures in pairing will be featured in an upcoming episode of the “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom” docuseries now streaming on Disney+. 

Two other rhinos at the park are also expecting; Jao is due fall 2021, and Lola will likely give birth in fall/winter 2021. 

Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom has allowed viewers to see more of the lives and personalities of some of the beautiful animals that are cared for at Walt Disney World, mostly at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park but also at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Seas with Nemo and Friends at Epcot. If you haven’t, definitely check it out. I’ve already previewed the episode that includes Kendi and Dugan, it’s fun to see the various animals on the show that we recognize and learn their stories.