European Transport Brings White Rhino Calf Ayo to Natura Viva Park

A young southern white rhinoceros named Ayo has arrived at the Natura Viva park after an 1,800-kilometer journey from Sweden, which included a Baltic Sea ferry and over 48 hours in transit. The animal was transported in a crate and was calmly introduced to its new habitat, with keepers and veterinarians present to assist.

The park plans to introduce a second rhino from France in the coming weeks to share the African plains environment. This relocation is part of the EAZA European conservation program, aiming to address past losses of rhinos in the region and combat the rising poaching threat, with 352 rhinos killed in South Africa in 2025. The park collaborates with Save the Rhino on security and monitoring efforts at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, preparing for future reproduction and growth initiatives.
Italian Version