Black Rhinoceros – Classification, Behavior, Diet and More

Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Mammalia
Order:	Perissodactyla
Family:	Rhinocerotidae
Genus:	Diceros
Species:	D. bicornis

The majestic Black Rhinoceros, scientifically known as Diceros bicornis, is a remarkable creature that roams the vast landscapes of Africa. Despite its name, it’s not completely black, but its thick skin appears dark due to its mud-wallowing habits. This article gives you the information about the captivating world of the Black Rhinoceros, shedding light on its appearance, distribution, behavior, and interactions with the environment and humans.

Classification

Belonging to the family Rhinocerotidae, the Black Rhinoceros is one of the five existing rhinoceros species worldwide. This species is further divided into two subspecies: the Southern Black Rhinoceros and the critically endangered Eastern Black Rhinoceros.

Quick Facts

The Black Rhinoceros is the smaller of the two African rhinoceros species.
It’s known for its pointed upper lip, which helps it grasp leaves and twigs.
Despite its size, it can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour when charging.
Black Rhinos are primarily solitary creatures, except during mating and mother-calf relationships.

Appearance of Black Rhinoceros

Characterized by their distinctive hooked upper lip and two prominent horns, the Black Rhinoceros has a robust build with thick, wrinkled skin. These horns, made of keratin, can reach lengths of up to 55 inches. Their prehensile upper lip allows them to grasp and strip leaves and twigs from bushes and trees. Their grayish to brownish skin tone, which can appear almost black due to mud baths, acts as a protective barrier against the sun and insects.

Distribution and Habitat

Black Rhinoceroses inhabit a range of habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, from savannas to grasslands and dense forests. They have adapted to various ecosystems, including wetlands and deserts. However, their populations have significantly declined due to habitat loss and poaching for their horns.

Biology of the Black Rhinoceros

Black Rhinoceroses possess an intricate digestive system to process the tough plant matter they consume. Their diet mainly consists of woody plants, shrubs, and bushes. Their elongated skull and powerful jaw muscles enable them to feed efficiently on fibrous vegetation, breaking it down into digestible particles.

Behavior of Black Rhinoceros

These solitary creatures are known for their territorial behavior and will mark their territory with dung piles. They communicate through vocalizations, including grunts and whistles. Black Rhinos are often more aggressive than their white counterparts, and they can be unpredictable when threatened.

Diet of Black Rhinoceros

The Black Rhinoceros is a herbivore with a specialized diet. Their prehensile upper lip helps them grasp and strip leaves, twigs, and branches from various plants. They are browsers, meaning they feed on a variety of plant species, including bushes, shrubs, and trees. Their unique digestive system allows them to extract nutrients from fibrous plant material.

Life Span of Black Rhinoceros

Black Rhinos can live for about 35 to 50 years in the wild. However, their lifespan is influenced by factors such as habitat conditions, availability of food, and human interference.

Reproduction of Black Rhinoceros

Breeding occurs year-round, but peak mating periods vary depending on the region. After a gestation period of approximately 15 to 16 months, females give birth to a single calf. Mother-calf bonds are strong, and the mother is protective of her young.

Relationship with Humans

The relationship between Black Rhinos and humans has been tumultuous. Poaching for their horns, driven by misguided beliefs in their medicinal properties, has significantly impacted their populations. Conservation efforts, including anti-poaching initiatives and habitat protection, are crucial for their survival.

Predators

Despite their imposing size, adult Black Rhinoceroses have few natural predators due to their strength and formidable horns. However, young calves may be vulnerable to predation by large carnivores such as lions and hyenas.

Conclusion

The Black Rhinoceros, a magnificent and enigmatic creature, holds a vital place in the ecosystems it inhabits. Its unique adaptations, behavior, and interactions with its environment reflect the complexity of the natural world. Yet, the species faces significant challenges, primarily driven by human activities. As we continue to learn more about these majestic creatures, it becomes apparent that their survival is intertwined with our responsibility to protect and conserve their habitats.

FAQs

Are Black Rhinoceroses really black?

No, the term “Black” refers to the dark appearance of their skin, which is often caked in mud. Their actual skin color ranges from grayish to brownish.

Why do Black Rhinos have two horns?

Black Rhinos possess two horns made of keratin, a protein also found in human hair and nails. These horns are used for defense against predators and during territorial disputes.

How do Black Rhinoceroses communicate?

Black Rhinos use vocalizations, including grunts, whistles, and bellows, to communicate with each other. They also mark their territories with dung piles.

Why are Black Rhinoceroses endangered?

The primary threat to Black Rhinoceroses is poaching for their horns, driven by unfounded beliefs in their medicinal properties. Conservation efforts are vital to protect these animals from extinction.

What is the role of conservation organizations in protecting Black Rhinoceroses?

Conservation organizations play a crucial role in anti-poaching efforts, habitat preservation, and public awareness campaigns to save Black Rhinoceroses from extinction.

Siraj Ud Din

Siraj is an accomplished writer at Animal Planetory. With an experience of over 1 year, he has a keen interest in animals. He loves to go to nature and loves writing about the animals he sees in the wild.