Feb 12, 2022

Rolling Hills Zoo announces name of rhino calf

Posted Feb 12, 2022 1:09 AM
<b>Rolling Hills Zoo has named its new rhino calf Augustus. His keepers are already calling him by the nicknames Gus and Auggie.</b> Photo by Tanner Colvin courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo
Rolling Hills Zoo has named its new rhino calf Augustus. His keepers are already calling him by the nicknames Gus and Auggie. Photo by Tanner Colvin courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo

By SALINA POST

Salina Post readers, meet Augustus!

Rolling Hills Zoo announced late this afternoon that its two-month-old rhino calf has officially been named Augustus, which means "great, magnificent."

More than 1,200 people voted for the calf's name via social media. In addition to Augustus, voters were given the following names from which to choose.

Humphrey, meaning “giant peace” and after Kansas City Chief’s Creed Humphrey

Hank, meaning “ruler of the home”

Masego, a Tswana name meaning “blessings”

Jabari, from Swahili meaning “brave”

Panya, from African-Swahili roots, meaning “mouse,” because the rhino calf makes a squeaking sound

Since he was born Dec. 9, Augustus has been busy growing. When he was born, he weighed 125 pounds. Now Augustus weighs approximately 300 pounds.

According to information from Rolling Hills Zoo, Augustus also has begun exploring the rhino yard when temperatures are warmer. When Augustus is not outside, visitors can see him in the rhino barn during the following hours.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday through Monday

1-3 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday.