Rhinoceroses in zoological collections face welfare challenges related to their large space requirements, social complexity and susceptibility to stress-related health conditions in captive environments.
Rhinoceroses carry enormous conservation significance, making captive population management a high priority for several species. However, this conservation imperative must not overshadow individual animal welfare. Captive rhinos on hard substrates develop chronic foot lesions. Solitary species housed with incompatible conspecifics experience chronic stress. Reproductive challenges in captive females, including ovarian cysts and reproductive tract pathology, are widespread and linked to management factors. Best-practice facilities provide deep substrate bedding, species-appropriate social groupings, extensive ranging areas and environmental enrichment that supports natural grazing, wallowing and scent-marking behaviors. Welfare monitoring protocols should be integrated into all captive rhino management programs.