Benno, the “traveler” rhinoceros who spent the last years of his life at the Natura Viva Park in Bussolengo, has passed away at nearly 44 years of age. Born in the 1980s at a zoo in Knoxville, Tennessee, Benno led a life marked by numerous relocations between various European zoos before finally finding his permanent home in the Italian park in 2012. During his time there, Benno did not father any offspring and exhibited aggressive behavior towards females, which led to him being housed in a separate area while still having contact with antelopes.
The rhinoceros died of old age, and his skeleton will be displayed at the Natural History Museum in Turin. The park’s zoological director, Camillo Sandri, emphasized how the serene environment of the park contributed to Benno’s well-being, allowing for the regrowth of his horn. Following his death, the park is preparing to welcome two new white rhinoceros specimens to continue its conservation and awareness efforts for the species.
