A zebra has died at Colchester Zoo after being attacked by a rhino. The African enclosure, which allows visitors to see how the animals would interact in their natural habitats, had to be cleared of visitors after the brutal attack.
Visitors were asked to leave the area after tensions rose between the two animals. Many people were unclear of what was happening as they were led away from the outside enclosure.
Colchester Zoo issued a statement saying: “At approximately 2pm [on Friday, January 10], there was an incident in our mixed-species African habitat between a rhino and our male zebra, and sadly, the zebra has died. At this time we are directing our resources to make sure the rest of the animals in the habitat are settled.
“These sorts of incidents are extremely rare and we will continue to monitor the situation over the next few days. We are devastated by this loss and thank you for your understanding and support at this time.”
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However, according to the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, white rhinos and male zebras can pose a high risk to one another. In a document for best practice, the organisation stated: “Several species have been described as possible problem species for a mixed rhino exhibit. These are: elephants, addax, zebra stallions, wildebeest bulls and giraffe bulls. Mixing those species with white rhinos can be very risky even in large enclosures.” It remains unclear on the species of rhino involved in the attack.
The Kingdom of Wildlife enclosure was opened in 2001, with the aim of creating an environment similar to one that the animals might be found in in their natural habitat. Colchester Zoo’s website says: “This habitat is one of the few areas where you can see a range of different animals interacting as they would do out in the wild.
“You will have the chance to see reticulated giraffes, maneless zebra, white rhino, ostrich, crowned crane and greater kudu enjoying their savannah environment. The inside area is also home to pygmy hippo, a variety of reptiles, birds, and fish species. There is also a lovely view from the balcony overlooking our outdoor paddock.”
Some of the visitors who were evacuated from the viewing areas shared their experience on the zoo’s social media. One wrote: “So sad to read this. We were at the zoo today. Literally just seen the rhinos and zebras chasing as we headed inside. We were asked to make our way to the exit to clear the area, not having a clue what had happened. Staff were amazing and acted very professionally under such awful circumstances. Our thoughts are with you all.”
Another visitor added:”I was there with my daughter and three-year-old grandson about 30 minutes before this happened!! There was one particular rhino that wouldn’t leave an ostrich alone and I thought he looked annoyed at the time! Thank goodness my little grandson didn’t witness it! So very sad for all involved.”
Staff at the zoo are said to be ‘devastated’ at the events which unfolded yesterday.