#United States #San Antonio #southern white rhino #Natural Bridge #Twuda

A Historic Birth at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, located in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, is filled with joy after welcoming its third southern white rhinoceros calf in just three years. Named Twuda, this remarkable female calf was born on September 8, 2026, to proud parents Gertie and Kutu. This event is not only a cause for celebration but also signifies a critical achievement in wildlife conservation efforts focused on this endangered species.

Twuda was born weighing around 150 pounds, measuring approximately 28 inches in height and 36 inches in length. The significance of Twuda’s birth cannot be understated; it is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the Ranch’s team over the last two decades to establish successful breeding programs for southern white rhinos, a species that faces significant reproductive challenges in zoological settings.

“It’s extraordinary to have three calves in three years; it represents a milestone for our team and the future of the species,” says Tiffany Soechting, an animal specialist at the Ranch. “Every birth is crucial, and this ongoing success story emphasizes our commitment and the care our team provides.”

Breeding southern white rhinos in captivity poses numerous challenges due to their slow reproductive rate. Studies suggest that only about one-third of these rhinos in zoos successfully reproduce. Female southern white rhinos have a lengthy gestation period ranging from 15 to 16 months and typically give birth to a single calf, with several years between births. Given these circumstances, the Ranch's achievement of three calves within such a short time frame is highly commendable.

Dr. Stephen Momberg, the Director of Veterinary Care and Research Programs for Save the Giraffes and a key figure at the Ranch, elaborates on the importance of their breeding success. “The successful birth of a southern white rhino is the culmination of years of expert care and informed management decisions. It involves careful consideration of herd dynamics, genetics, nutrition, and overall management strategies.”

Twuda’s arrival exemplifies the Ranch’s solid foundation for future reproductive successes, which is crucial given the declining numbers of white rhinos globally. As of 2026, an estimated 15,752 white rhinos remain in the wild across 11 African nations, a decrease from 17,464 in 2023. Poaching remains the primary peril to their survival, further exacerbated by habitat loss and fragmentation.

While managed breeding programs like that at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch do not replace the urgent necessity for wildlife conservation efforts in natural habitats, they do provide a safeguard for maintaining genetically diverse populations under professional care. Such programs also foster conservation education, research, and veterinary knowledge.

Along with the excitement surrounding Twuda’s birth, the Ranch uses these events to spread awareness about the critical situation many rhinos face in the wild. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch aims to be a leader in conservation education while continuing to advance research efforts relevant to the health, reproduction, and behaviors of rhinos and other wildlife.

Located on 500 acres of scenic landscapes, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is home to over 500 animals representing more than 40 species. It offers various safari experiences, allowing guests to connect with these magnificent creatures while promoting wildlife conservation initiatives.

The Ranch invites visitors and wildlife enthusiasts to join them in celebrating this significant milestone, as it embodies hope for the future of southern white rhinos. To learn more about their conservation efforts or to schedule a visit, head over to WildlifeRanchTexas.com.