When a male rhino came upon a cow and calf, his amorous intentions were clear. However, with a young one to care for, she was not in the mood for love.
This footage was sent to Latest Sightings by the staff at Kapama Game Reserve, where the interaction was recorded.
Hope & concern
The opening scene of the video gives viewers both hope and concern. On the left, a white rhino bull approaches a cow and her calf.
While the sight of the calf raises hope for the species, the bull’s aggressive behaviour creates concern for its safety. White rhinos are a Near-Threatened species, meaning their future survival requires interventions to prevent their extinction.
Body language interpretation
The body language of the two adults present tells us a lot about what is unfolding. The bull’s upcurled tail indicates both his desire to mate and that he is in an agitated state.
Meanwhile, the cow’s lowered head and pinned-back ears suggest that she feels threatened and submissive. Meanwhile, her calf shows a mix of curiosity and caution, sensing his mother’s discomfort.
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Change in messaging
Subsequently, the bull advances a few steps. As he does, the cow raises her head, indicating she is ready to defend herself and her calf, if necessary.
This is a clear threat display, meant to signal intent without yet acting on it. By not attacking immediately, she reduces the risk of injury and gives the bull a chance to retreat.
Consequently, the bull lowers his head and lets his tail hang limp. It’s as if he is trying to convince her his intentions are purely romantic.
I’ve got this, Mom
Meanwhile, the calf seems to want to protect his mom. Bravely, he advances towards the bull.
However, when the bull moves forward to meet his challenge, the inexperienced youngster quickly backs off.
Still, the female’s ears remain pinned back. Although submissive, she will not want to mate again until her calf is independent. This normally happens when the calf is two to three years old and independent.
Blunt male horn
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Accordingly, a stalemate follows. Neither the male nor the female is ready to back down from their position.
In an aside, you’ll note that the male’s horn is blunt at the tip, with gradual regrowth evident. This is probably due to a dehorning program, deemed necessary to deter poachers.
No means no
As the stalemate continues, the cow gets increasingly anxious. With her calf sheltering behind her, she needs to do something to break the deadlock.
Realising that the bull won’t just go, she advances threateningly towards him. Her drool tells us she is about to lose her temper.
Her pinned-back ears, however, suggest that she is doing so because she has been left with no choice.
Thankfully, her ploy works, and the bull backpedals a few steps, with his ears now pinned back. As the video ends shortly after, we can only hope that he got the message once and for all.
