Thanks to the efforts of committed conservationists and hunters, the number of write rhino is steadily increasing, unlike the black rhino, which is still a protected species. Rhino only attain hunting status when they reach the age of 15 years. Strict hunting permits still apply to hunting white rhino in South Africa, which is why it is important to work through a reputable hunting outfitter who specializes in dangerous game hunting experiences.
The white rhino seems to be the most placid of South Africa's Big Five. It is known for its belligerence, rather than for its ferocity. Known for its size, the square-lipped white rhino can weigh up to two-and-a-half tons and both male and female white rhino have two dense horns. The head is longer and broader than that of the black rhino, and it has a prominent shoulder hump. The black rhino is approximately half the size, and have darker skin.
An exclusive grazer, the white rhino is social in nature and tends to be quite docile, except during mating season or while protecting its young. Dominant white rhino breeding bulls tend to be territorial. The black rhino with its hooked lip, on the contrary, is much more aggressive and tends to charge without warning.
Rhinos favor the bushy savannah near water and trees for shade. They usually tend to live in small groups, although the older males tend to become solitary and grumpy.
Rhino only attain hunting status when they reach the age of 15 years
| Scientific Name: | Ceratotherium simum |
| Gestation Period: | 16 - 18 months |
| Male Weight: | 2 300 kg |
| Female Weight: | 1 700 kg |
| Height: | 1.7 - 1.8 m |
Rhino hunting in South Africa is an exciting adventure, since the animals can be quite elusive. They have razor sharp senses of hearing and smell, but their eyesight is poor. Slow and silent stalking from a downwind position is best.
The quality of a rhino trophy is judged based on the length of the horns, as well as the base circumference. Due to the fact that the rhino tends to hold its head quite low to the ground, it is relatively easy to judge the horn length from the broadside based on the heigh of the first horn in relation to the ears. The higher the horn is above the ears when front-facing, the better.
Outfitters may have measured the length of horns during veterinary inspections while the animal was sedated, and may therefore be able to offer Silver or Gold Medal white rhino. However, horns may wear down when the rhino gouge or sharpen it against trees, or when they dig in soil.
When hunting white rhino, you need a .375 Magnum or - preferably - a larger caliber that is suitable for thick-skinned animals, along with well-constructed, solid bullets. We also recommend the 416 Rigby, 458 Win Mag, 458 Lott, 460 Weatherby, 500 A-Square or 505 Gibbs or similar calibers. Good ammunition include Federal Premium or Hornady in most weights, especially the 500 grain projectiles.
However, since these types of bullets tend to exit, you must be cognizant of anything that might be behind your target. Listen to your Professional Hunter's advice and stay safe.
White Rhino Shot Placement
Broadside
White Rhino Shot Placement
Frontal
