New Southern White Rhino Arrives at Potawatomi Zoo

Frankie replaces Masamba, who was moved to Ohio for breeding.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:18pm

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An abstract, highly structured painting in muted greens, browns, and grays, featuring sweeping geometric shapes, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex natural ecosystem surrounding the endangered southern white rhino.A new southern white rhino joins the Potawatomi Zoo's conservation efforts, highlighting the delicate balance of species protection across zoos and habitats.South Bend Today

The Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend, Indiana, has welcomed a new southern white rhino named Frankie. Frankie arrived last week and will replace the previous resident rhino, Masamba, who was moved to a conservation center in Ohio for breeding purposes as part of the Southern White Rhino Species Survival Plan.

Why it matters

The arrival of Frankie allows the Potawatomi Zoo to continue playing a role in rhino conservation efforts by providing a home for a solo male white rhino, which helps free up space at other zoos to focus on breeding programs for the endangered species.

The details

Frankie is currently behind-the-scenes as he gets acclimated to his new zoo keepers and habitat, but visitors may be able to see him as he adjusts. The move of Frankie to the Potawatomi Zoo was recommended by the Southern White Rhino Species Survival Plan, which coordinates conservation efforts across zoos.

  • Frankie arrived at the Potawatomi Zoo last week.
  • Masamba was moved to a conservation center in Ohio this past fall.

The players

Potawatomi Zoo

A zoo located in South Bend, Indiana that is home to a variety of animal species, including the new southern white rhino, Frankie.

Frankie

The new southern white rhino that has arrived at the Potawatomi Zoo to replace the previous resident, Masamba.

Masamba

The previous southern white rhino resident at the Potawatomi Zoo who was moved to a conservation center in Ohio for breeding purposes.

Southern White Rhino Species Survival Plan

A conservation program that coordinates efforts across zoos to help protect the endangered southern white rhino species, including recommending the move of Frankie to the Potawatomi Zoo.

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What’s next

Frankie will continue to acclimate to his new habitat and zoo keepers at the Potawatomi Zoo, and visitors may have opportunities to see him as he adjusts.

The takeaway

The arrival of Frankie the southern white rhino at the Potawatomi Zoo is an important contribution to ongoing conservation efforts for this endangered species, demonstrating how zoos can play a vital role in protecting wildlife through coordinated breeding and relocation programs.