Southern White Rhino Calf Born at Ohio Zoo for Second Time This Year

The Wilds welcomes another southern white rhino calf, the third for mother Kali.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:53pm

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A bold, abstract painting in the style of Hilma af Klint, featuring sweeping geometric shapes and organic botanical forms in earthy tones, conceptually representing the complex natural forces behind the successful breeding and conservation of southern white rhinos.The birth of two southern white rhino calves at an Ohio conservation center underscores the success of ongoing efforts to protect and grow this once endangered species.Cumberland Today

The Wilds conservation center in Cumberland, Ohio, has welcomed the birth of a female southern white rhino calf, the second one born at the zoo this year. The calf was born on March 28 to 12-year-old mother Kali, who was also born at The Wilds. This is Kali's third calf, and the 17th rhino sired by the father, Bernard. The two new calves have not yet met, but plans will be made for an introduction as they continue to grow.

Why it matters

Southern white rhinos were once on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 100 remaining in the early 1900s. While the species has since rebounded thanks to conservation efforts, they are still classified as near threatened. The births at The Wilds highlight the importance of ongoing conservation work to protect this species and its future.

The details

The Wilds announced the birth of the female calf on March 28. Both the calf and its mother, Kali, are doing well. This is Kali's third calf, and the 17th rhino sired by the father, Bernard. The two new calves born this year at The Wilds have not yet met, but plans will be made for an introduction as they continue to grow, explore, and show their personalities.

  • The female calf was born on March 28, 2026.
  • A male calf was born at The Wilds on March 5, 2026.

The players

The Wilds

A conservation center in Cumberland, Ohio, that is home to more than 500 animals, including 28 rare and endangered species.

Kali

A 12-year-old southern white rhino who was born at The Wilds and has now given birth to her third calf.

Bernard

The father of the two new calves born at The Wilds this year, and now the sire of 17 rhinos.

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What they’re saying

“Welcoming two calves in such a short time is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our animal management teams. Their daily care and long-term planning are central to The Wilds' leadership in rhino conservation and play an important role in supporting the future of this species.”

— Dr. Joe Greathouse, Vice President of The Wilds

What’s next

The two new calves will be introduced to each other as they continue to grow and develop their personalities.

The takeaway

The births of these southern white rhino calves at The Wilds highlight the ongoing conservation efforts to protect this species, which was once on the brink of extinction. The Wilds' expertise and dedication in caring for these animals play a crucial role in supporting the future of this near-threatened species.