Celebrating World Rhino Day with Rumba and Rumball at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Every year on September 22, the world comes together to celebrate one of Earth’s most iconic yet endangered animals—rhinos. World Rhino Day is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of rhinos and encouraging conservation efforts. Here at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, we’re proud to care for two magnificent southern white rhinos, Rumba and Rumbull, and we’re excited to celebrate these incredible creatures with you. This World Rhino Day, join us in learning about their fascinating lives and what we can do to help protect their species for generations to come.

Meet Rumba and Rumball

Rumba and Rumball are a big part of our zoo family. These two southern white rhinos have been with us since 2005 and are firm favourites among staff and visitors. They love to wallow in mud, a behaviour that helps keep her skin cool and protected from the sun. Together, Rumba and Rumbull are ambassadors for their species, helping us educate visitors on the importance of rhino conservation.

Why Rhinos Need Your Help

Rhinos have roamed the Earth for millions of years, but today, all five species are under threat. Poaching for their horns and the destruction of their natural habitats have pushed them to the edge of extinction. The southern white rhino, like Rumba and Rumball, was once nearly wiped out. By the end of the 19th century, fewer than 100 individuals remained in the wild. Thanks to dedicated conservationists, their population has since recovered to around 18,000, making them one of conservation’s biggest success stories. However, the fight to protect rhinos is far from over.

Despite the progress made, rhinos still face significant challenges. Poaching continues to be a major threat, with their horns fetching high prices on the black market. Habitat loss due to agriculture and human development further exacerbates the problem, shrinking the spaces rhinos need to thrive. That’s why World Rhino Day is so important—it’s a chance for all of us to come together to raise awareness and take action.

How Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is Making a Difference

At Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, we’re committed to supporting rhino conservation both locally and globally. Rumba and Rumball are part of a larger effort to raise awareness about the importance of protecting rhinos and their habitats. Through our educational programs, guests can learn about the history of rhino conservation, the challenges these animals face in the wild, and what they can do to help.

How You Can Help

This World Rhino Day, we invite you to join us in the fight to save rhinos. There are so many ways you can make a difference. Consider adopting a rhino through a conservation organisation or donating to support anti-poaching efforts. Simply spreading the word about the importance of rhino conservation can also have a huge impact. And of course, visiting Rumba and Rumball at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is a great way to learn more about rhinos and the steps we’re taking to protect them.

Rhino Keeper Q and A

We asked our followers to send us in some questions for our keepers to answer, ahead of World Rhino Day.

How big is a Rhino’s horn?

Rhino horns can range from 50cm- 140cm, and actually weigh between 1 and a half kilos to 3 kilos!  

What is the easiest way to tell the difference between a white rhino and a black rhino?

The easiest way is to look at their lips! White rhinos have wide, straight lips which is great for picking up lots of grass. The black rhino has a lip that looks like a beak so they are deigned to pick up bits of bushes and trees. 

Are Rhinos monogamous?

Unfortunately no! But they can form friendships like Rumba and Rumbull here. 

What’s the best thing about working with rhinos?

The best thing about working with rhinos is building a bond with them. They really enjoy having scratches in the morning which is always a nice start to the day. Being a rhino keeper, no two days are the same which definitely keeps things interested!

World Rhino Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting these extraordinary animals. Whether you’re donating to conservation efforts, visiting Rumba and Rumbull at the zoo, or simply raising awareness, every action counts. We hope to see you at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm soon to celebrate with us and to learn more about how you can get involved in rhino conservation.