The North Carolina Zoo has officially announced the death of their beloved southern white rhinoceros with a big personality, Natalie, who was euthanized on January 10th as her health continued to decline, according to WRAL News.
Natalie arrived at the North Carolina Zoo with her son Lyonnel in 2007 and won over zookeepers with what they said was a big personality.
“Unfortunately, her health was in a steep decline despite treatment efforts, which led to a decrease in quality of life,” Associate Veterinarian for the North Carolina Zoo, Dr. Tim Georoff said. “This week, the animal care and vet teams made the difficult decision to euthanize Natalie when treatment efforts were no longer effective.”
“She was a very smart rhino, often leaving us wondering who was training whom,” Animal Management Supervisor Jade Tuttle said of Natalie. “In her declining health, she began to seek out affection from staff and was dedicated to her bestie, rhino Abby. Her wild spirit was one of a kind, and she will be missed by our crash.”
The North Carolina Zoo now has a rhino crash of seven females including Linda, Kit, Abby, Nandi, Bonnie, Jojo and Mguu.
For those who want to make a donation for rhino conservation worldwide, in Natalie’s memory, you can do so here
