World Rhino Day is on September 21, but The Wilds celebrates rhinos throughout the year with a commitment to protecting the future of these species!
The Wilds' Conservation Efforts
Located on almost 10,000 acres of lush landscapes along the Appalachian Byway in rural southeast Ohio, The Wilds stands as a prominent player on the global stage in wildlife conservation efforts. As one of the largest conservation centers in North America, The Wilds is dedicated to the preservation of species worldwide, including the crucial role it plays in global rhino conservation initiatives.
Spanning diverse fields such as conservation biology, veterinary medicine, genetics, and ecology, The Wilds actively contributes to cutting-edge conservation science. Its involvement is pivotal in comprehending the unique requirements of rare and endangered species, ultimately paving the way for innovative conservation strategies to safeguard their existence.
Equipped with extensive experience and access to some of the world's rarest species, the wildlife experts at The Wilds spearhead scientific research in the field, publishing their discoveries in peer-reviewed scientific journals. This wealth of knowledge is generously shared with fellow wildlife organizations, universities, and conservation partners around the globe. As a result, the impact of The Wilds' commitment to conservation extends not only to the animals under its care but also to those residing in their native habitats, solidifying its global conservation legacy.
The Wilds manages one of the largest southern white rhino herds in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) zoological community with 17 white rhinos. While The Wilds is notable for many reasons, it is also unique in that it is the only facility outside of Africa with white rhinos born five generations removed from their wild-born ancestors. Each birth is important, especially since the species is classified as Near Threatened on the International Union for the Conservancy of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species™.
The conservation center also houses seven greater one-horned Asian rhinos, which is listed as Vulnerable. Unfortunately, rhinos continue to be killed by poachers who sell rhino horn for ornamental or traditional medicinal purposes even though there are no scientifically proven health benefits for its use. The horns are made of keratin—the same substance that makes up fingernails and hair.
The Wilds is a Center for Action
As part of The Wilds’ continued commitment to protecting these species, The Wilds has also teamed up with the Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife (CREW) at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and other partner research facilities to form the American Institute of Rhinoceros Science (AIRS), a model for saving species with science ex situ (which means off site or outside natural habitat). The Wilds provides a base of operations for AIRS, and the initiative was made possible by a National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This collaboration strives to save rhinos through science by researching their physical condition, reproduction, specific health issues, and behavioral and environmental factors – all in an effort to maximize the wellbeing of the rhinos in professional care.
AIRS recognizes the interconnected nature of these research priorities and their mutual influence. Over a three-year period, scientists will conduct research within each of these areas, exploring overlapping subjects and assessing the cross-pillar effects. All data collected from these studies will be consolidated in a centralized database accessible to all AIRS members.
Ultimately, AIRS aims to provide practical and cost-effective management recommendations to veterinarians and animal care staff across the 74 AZA facilities responsible for the wellbeing of rhinos. This collaborative effort underscores the organization's commitment to rhino conservation.
“The Wilds is honored and excited to be a part of this program,” said Dr. Joe Smith, Vice President of The Wilds. “Our successful rhino breeding herds and talented, experienced animal management staff—along with the collaborative work with our partners—make The Wilds an invaluable resource for this important work.”
Through cutting-edge research, knowledge sharing, partnerships with organizations like the International Rhino Foundation, and initiatives like the American Institute of Rhinoceros Science (AIRS), The Wilds extends its impact far beyond its borders. Its dedication to breeding programs, SSPs, and advancing veterinary medicine not only safeguards endangered species but also contributes to a holistic approach to conservation. In engaging its local community, The Wilds fosters a sense of connection and awareness, reminding us all of our shared responsibility in preserving our planet's biodiversity.
