Summary

The white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) is stated as „near threatened‟ since 2002 by the IUCN. The EAZA rhino collection is not self-sustaining. In addition to a breeding program, EAZA husbandry guidelines are developed in order to share knowledge on best husbandry practise among the European institutions keeping white rhinoceros in captivity. By increasing the knowledge, the conditions for the well-being and reproduction of all animals in the European Endangered species Program (EEP) can be optimised which will benefit the possible establishment of a sustainable ex situ population. The research goal is to produce concept husbandry guidelines providing information on biology, field data and white rhino management in captivity. The rhino TAG need to finalize this document into final husbandry guidelines.