The park is home to a relatively large population of black and white rhinos. And sure enough the first animal we spot off in the distance was"our first" black rhino. The black, or hook-lipped rhinoceros is one species of rhinoceros and even though the rhino is referred to as black, its color varies from brown to gray. The black rhinos are considered more solitary animals and stay their distance--the one we found was too far away for a great picture.
The other African rhinoceros is the white rhinoceros--the word white is a misinterpretation of the Afrikaans word wyd, derived from the Dutch word wijd for wide, referring to its square upper lip. White rhinoceros are more social and can be found in groups or roaming closer to other animals, hence the great pictures. The color of the white rhino also varies from brown to gray.
The waterbuck passing by in the distance gives you an idea on how big this guy is up close and personal!
If you look closely, you can see the Red-billed Oxpeckers having a free ride, taking the ticks and flies from the body of this mammal. This big, ugly, host rhino seems pleased with the oxpeckers' work, holding still and hoping the oxpecker won't get too rough in his ear.
Everything seems peaceful in the bush even though this huge guy is passing by. The Gray Crowned Cranes don't even look up and the ducks are happy playing in their space in the water, but the impala may be a little concerned.
A content rhino and best friend!
(Copyright 2014)
(Copyright 2014)
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