WICHITA, Kan. – Sedgwick County Zoo is pleased to announce the arrival of Dalia, a female Eastern Black Rhinoceros who recently relocated from Cleveland, Ohio.
Dalia’s care team reports that she is settling in well, exhibiting normal, healthy rhino behaviors as she adjusts to her new habitat. Keepers describe her as intelligent, curious, and eager to participate in training sessions – qualities that will support a smooth introduction process in the months ahead.
Dalia joins KJ, the Zoo’s male Eastern Black Rhino, as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Black Rhino Species Survival Plan (SSP). SSPs are cooperative breeding and conservation programs designed to maintain healthy, genetically diverse animal populations across accredited zoos while supporting broader conservation efforts for threatened and endangered species.
While Dalia and KJ have been recommended to breed as part of the SSP, both rhinos are still maturing. The animal care team will take the time necessary to carefully plan their introductions, ensuring the process supports their long-term wellbeing and success.
Eastern Black Rhinos are critically endangered, with population declines driven primarily by habitat loss and poaching. Every individual within the SSP plays an important role in the future of the species, making Dalia’s arrival a significant milestone for the Zoo’s conservation efforts.
Sedgwick County Zoo looks forward to sharing updates on Dalia’s continued acclimation and the future of its Black Rhino program.