Baby Astrid is 'Out of this World'

Cotswold Wildlife Park recently celebrated the birth of a White Rhino calf, the first to be born in park's forty-three year history.

Although at the time, it was too early to determine the sex of the newborn, Cotswold Wildlife Park is delighted to reveal that mother Nancy and father Monty produced a beautiful girl named Astrid.

Reggie Heyworth, Managing Director of Cotswold Wildlife Park, said: “Astrid is an old family friend and great fan of the Park. Her family were the first to have the idea of our annual charity fundraiser Roar ‘n’ Snore. Astrid was widowed at a young age and remarried this July. Naming the baby Rhino was a late wedding gift.”

One month on, Astrid has grown both in size and personality. Deputy Assistant Curator, Mark Godwin, commented: “We are very happy with her progress and she is showing all the signs of being a healthy Rhino. Nancy is an exceptional first-time mother and the two have bonded perfectly.

"Astrid is growing more confident by the day, charging around the paddock, much to the delight of our visitors. She’s quite a character and a great addition to our Rhino family. We’re hoping Nancy will have another calf in the future and judging by her first experience of motherhood, we’re very optimistic and are keeping our fingers crossed.”

A female Rhino will give birth to a single calf once approximately every two or three years. The mother will nurse her calf for up to a year, although gradual weaning begins naturally after the first few months.

Their bond is a strong one and the calf will remain with its mother for at least two years, benefiting from her protection. Females guard their offspring aggressively and are intimidating adversaries if challenged.

Visitors can see new calf Astrid daily from 10am to 6pm in the large paddock she shares with White Rhinos Ruby, mother Nancy and father Monty, overlooking the Manor House.