Rare White Rhino Calf “Markus” Born at Cotswold Wildlife Park — UK’s Only Rhino Birth in 2025
Cotswold Wildlife Park in Oxfordshire is celebrating the arrival of a rare white rhino calf, marking the only white rhino birth in the UK in 2025. The healthy male calf, named Markus, is thriving under the care of keepers and already delighting visitors with his curious, playful nature.
Born to experienced mother Nancy and breeding male Monty, Markus is the 12th white rhino calf born at the park in as many years — a reflection of its world-class rhino breeding and conservation programme. The park now cares for a crash of eight white rhinos, one of the largest herds in the country.
“Luckily, keepers were present the evening Markus was born,” the park said in a statement. “In less than 45 minutes, Nancy’s 16-month pregnancy was over, and she delivered a healthy male calf.”
Head Keeper Mark Godwin praised the newborn’s confidence:
“He’s one of the most confident calves I’ve seen. If he grows into his features, he’s going to be a big lad.”
Newborn rhinos typically weigh about 11 stone (70 kg) and have one of the longest gestation periods of any land mammal. Markus, now a few weeks old, is described as a “high-spirited and boisterous addition to the crash,” delighting both visitors and staff with his energy.
The calf will remain close to his mother Nancy for about a year before becoming more independent. He has been named in honour of the late Dr Markus Borner, a celebrated African conservation scientist who dedicated his life to protecting endangered species.
Reggie Heyworth, Chairman of Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, said:
“Dr Borner gave me my start in conservation when he was Head of the Frankfurt Zoological Society in Tanzania. He was not only a giant in his field but also an incredibly supportive boss and dear friend.”
This rare birth highlights the park’s ongoing commitment to rhino conservation and global efforts to protect the species from threats such as poaching and habitat loss. Visitors to Cotswold Wildlife Park can now meet Markus and learn more about the importance of white rhino breeding in the UK.