Greater one-horned rhino | Chester Zoo animals

About

These prehistoric-looking rhinos are easily distinguishable by their thick, armour-like skin. They’re also the largest of all the rhino species.

Their horns are made from keratin (the same protein that makes our fingernails and hair) and can regrow if broken off. These rhinos are born without horns, and only develop them once they are about six years old. They use their horns to forage for roots and find food!

Their skin appears to look like plates of armour, due to its thickness. A layer of fat under their skin allows them to regulate their temperature, and their thick skin protects them from sharp thorns and branches when browsing for food.

Adult males live a solitary life. Groups consist of females and calves, and their calves stay together for around four years.

Greater one-horned rhino baby at Chester Zoo

Greater one-horned rhino facts

SPECIES

I am a mammal

The greater one-horned rhino is the largest of all rhino species.

FOUND IN

Asia

They are found in India and Nepal, mainly in the foothills of the Himalayas.

HABITAT

Grasslands and forests

These rhinos are semi-aquatic and are often found in swamps, forests, and along riversides.

DIET

Herbivores

They eat twigs, shrubs, small trees, and other foliage. They tend to live in areas near nutritious mineral licks.

BEHAVIOUR

Solitary and territorial

Several individuals occasionally meet at mud wallows for a social gathering. However, they will always separate again afterwards and live alone, unless they are females with small calves.

AVERAGE SIZE

Males can weigh up to 2800kg!

While females are slightly smaller at around 1600kg.

LIFE SPAN

Up to 40 years

There is no set breeding season, and a female will leave a gap of around 3 to 4 years between calves.

ZOO LOCATION

Near the main entrance

The greater one-horned rhino is one of the first habitats you'll see when you enter the zoo, between the Asian elephants and the Monkey House.

IUCN red list statusEndangered