White Rhinoceros


header: White Rhinoceros

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WCMC


header: Threatened Species

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C O N T E N T S

Introduction
Distribution
Population
Threats
Conservation &
Research Activities
Legal Status
Captive Breeding
References



The White Rhinoceros has probably received its common name due to the mistaken translation of the Boer word 'wijde' for wide, which refers to the broad square lips of the species. Yellowish brown to slaty grey in coloration, the White Rhino is hairless except for the ear fringes and tail bristles. This species has two horns, the front horn averages 60 cm in length but can occasionally reach 150 cm. The White Rhinoceros can be distinguished from the Black Rhino Diceros bicornis, primarily by the upper lip which is squared not pointed, the more sloping and less sharply defined forehead, and shoulder hump. The species primarily inhabits savannah and woodland interspersed with grassy openings . . .

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