Abiline, TX – On Monday, the Abiline Zoo announced the passing of their black rhinoceros, Macho. In a release, the zoo said that Macho, “passed away naturally on Monday, November 7, 2022, while resting in his barn at the Abilene Zoo under the watchful care of those who loved him the most; his animal care team and veterinarian team.”
Macho had been dealing with an “unknown” leg problem that prevented him from walking. The rhino had been undergoing physical therapy with the help of a therapeutic device that helped him stand, but he was not receiving any rehabilitation at the time of his passing. The zoo said, “Weighing in at over two thousand pounds and carrying over sixty percent of his body weight on his front legs made Macho’s recovery particularly challenging.”
Abilene Zoo Director Jesse Pottebaum said:
“I am deeply saddened for our team. They have poured every ounce of effort and produced innovative ideas to help Macho recover from his leg issue. We are saddened deeply with this loss, but I am so proud of the team’s dedication to help Macho.”
Macho was an ambassador for his species and he will be missed by his caretakers and guests. The zoo said:
He was known for his kindness, love of snacks, and gentle approach to everything he did. Macho truly was a gentle giant who inspired those young and old to love rhinos and save them from extinction.
Adding:
Please keep the Abilene Zoo animal care staff, and our entire Zoo Crew in your thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of this member of our family. The zoo has requested professional grief counseling for the team.
Macho’s body will undergo a necropsy to determine the cause of death.
(Image via Abiline Zoo/Facebook page)
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