Black Rhino and its Parasites

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park has introduced a new pair of black rhino into the Eastern Shores section of the park. The pair appears to be settling in well and many visitors to the park have been lucky enough to encounter at least one of the two.

Photo courtesy of iSimangaliso news flash

Many holidaymakers have contacted the iSimangaliso office via its emergency telephone number (0827977944) to report what appears to be wounds on the flank of the male black rhino. After examining the animal in question, KZN Wildlife Veterinarian Dr Dave Cooper confirmed that the 'wound' is not human inflicted, it is rather the symptom of a parasitic condition, filarial parasite, which is common in black rhino. While an affected animal could display symptoms for many years, the lesions which occur in the affected area may lessen as the rhino matures and, interestingly, the parasite dies when the animal dies. It is important to note that black rhinos living with this parasite are not sick in any way and live normal, healthy lives.