We all know that feeling when you have an itch that you just can’t reach. If you’ve ever wondered how rhinos cope with the problem, this video illustrates it beautifully.
Theo Ploos van Amstel submitted this amusing footage to Latest Sightings. He filmed it at Balule Game Reserve in northeastern South Africa.
Watch the video now:
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Excuse the intro
To say that Theo’s video opens awkwardly is no understatement. In case you’re wondering, you’re looking at a male white rhinoceros’s backside.
Now, before you look away, we’re not trying to be weird. Instead, take note of the slim tree between his legs. Not that one, the other one.
Unreachable itch
It doesn’t take long to realise that the rhino has an itch that he can’t get to in any other way. So, using his massive two-ton bulk, he has bent the tree between his legs.
While it may not be visually appealing, it certainly is funny to watch. Thankfully, it gets easier to watch from here.
Scratching posts
Subsequently, the view improves slightly. Now is a good time to mention that this behaviour is far from unusual for rhinos.
In fact, individuals may have several favoured scratching posts throughout their territories. Of course, this means they need sturdy landmarks, such as trees, stumps, and even termite mounds, to rub against.
And, as the bull really gets into it, you’ll appreciate that these objects get well worn over time. In fact, some stumps become highly polished.
Tough but sensitive
Rhinos have a very tough hide, ranging from 1.5 to 5 cm (0.6 to 2 inches) thick, which offers protection from thorns and predators. Nevertheless, it is sensitive and requires ongoing care.
And that means tending to every part of the body, from the nether regions to the nostrils.
All-round skincare routine
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And, as you can see, they do a very thorough job of it. For example, below, he works on the folds behind his front leg.
Then, having exfoliated and removed pesky parasites from that area, he concentrates on the area in front of the same limb.
Methodically, he then manoeuvres every part of his body, ensuring an all-round skincare routine.
Mud wallows and dust baths are another component of their personal grooming. These will often precede a visit to a rubbing post, as the dried mud helps exfoliate and remove parasites.
Relatable
As he rubs between his forelegs, his expression suggests that he is quite enjoying the experience. It’s hard not to love these prehistoric-looking beasts as they show such relatable behaviours.
Sadly, sightings such as this will be a thing of the past unless solutions are found to end the scourge of poaching. Today, white rhinos are classified as a Near-Threatened species by CITES, with an estimated 15,000 to 18,000 left in the wild.
As the video ends, the rhino takes a slight bow. It has been an honour to witness his performance, notwithstanding the awkward start.