LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Zoo has announced the death of 41-year-old southern white rhinoceros, Sindi.
For the past few years, Sindi has been treated for arthritis and other age-related conditions. The zoo said this week her appetite disappeared, she had increased repiratory issues and was lethargic. The rhino received several treatments and fluid therapy while sedated. The zoo team assessed her quality of life and it was determined euthanasia was the most compassionate choice for the mammal.
“Sindi has been a treasured part of our Zoo family since 1985. These tough decisions are made with a deep commitment to ensuring the best quality of life for all our animals. Our priority is their well-being, comfort and dignity from the moment they arrive until they leave us,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “We thank our community for loving Sindi as much as we did.”
“Sindi had been a major contributor in her own health care in recent years as her age progressed,” said the Zoo’s Associate Veterinarian Dr. Erica Lipanovich. “She actively participated in her training, allowing the veterinary team to draw blood and address issues routinely and with ease. She has been a wonderful animal to work with and will truly be missed.”
Sindi and fellow rhino Letterman were on rotational view in their shared public-facing habitat.
The southern white rhinoceros is the largest land mammal after elephants, they are also the largest species of rhino. The mammal from southern Africa normally weighs between 4,000 and 6,000 pounds. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the southern white rhinoceros as near threatened on its Red LIst of Threatened Species because of poaching threats and the increasing illegal demand for the mammal’s horns.
Guests may continue to observe Letterman daily in the Africa Zone. Now through Sept. 21, the Louisville Zoo is open 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
