The world’s second largest land animal has its own day of celebration. People everywhere celebrate World Rhino Day on September 22nd to raise awareness about this endangered species. Disney used the occasion to announce that three of its white rhinoceros are pregnant and expecting delivery in the next few months.

The three pregnant rhinos and their calves have been under the care of Disney veterinarian, Dr. Natalie Mylniczenko. Kendi, Jao, and Lola, as the rhinos are named, experience the best care under the tender supervision of the cast members at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You can usually spot white rhinoceros on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Kendi is expected to deliver her calf this October, Jao in the fall of 2021, and Lola in the fall/winter of 2021. As a rhinoceros endures a pregnancy of 16 to 18 months, the wait can be long and arduous. This means that Kendi has been pregnant since July of 2019 at the latest. Disney managed to keep the news of her pregnancy secret since that time.

Naturally, Dr. Mylniczenko has taken measures to make sure the rhino mothers and fetuses have remained healthy. Additionally, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums oversees the breeding progress of these white rhinos to make sure that they are being bred properly and responsibly.

The herd’s bull, Durgan, fathered all three calves. Once born, the calves will quickly adjust to their surroundings. They’ll stand within the first hour, but they won’t stray far. White rhinos tend to remain close to their mothers for the first year of their lives.

What do you think about this wonderful news? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.