Ready to rock and growl Safari West welcomes newborn southern white rhino Ozzy

Safari West celebrated the birth of a Southern white rhinoceros calf named Ozzy Osbourne, born on the same day as the rock icon's passing. This birth adds to the conservation efforts for the species, which is classified as "near threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The calf's parents, 20-year-old Eesha and 29-year-old Ongava, are part of a significant breeding program aimed at increasing rhino populations. Ongava is on loan from the Indianapolis Zoo, which owns both him and the newborn calf. Ozzy is expected to nurse for up to two years, but may wean early like his older brother Otto, born in April 2023.

The animal care team will monitor Ozzy's growth closely to ensure his well-being. Nancy Lang, co-founder of Safari West, noted that each rhino birth inspires hope and underscores the need for wildlife protection. Visitors to the preserve will soon have the chance to see Ozzy and engage with conservation efforts.