KLM flies four white rhinos to Mexico
Four white rhinos were flown from Paris to Guadalajara aboard a KLM freighter to establish a new breeding group and support long-term conservation efforts.
KLM transported four white rhinos from France to Mexico on a dedicated freighter flight, supporting international conservation efforts and the establishment of a new breeding group. The animals arrived in Guadalajara on October 21 after departing from Paris-Charles de Gaulle on the night of October 20.
The group comprises Wami from Parc zoologique de Paris, Lewa from Safari de Peaugres, and Salma and Moana from Serengeti-Park Hodenhagen. They will form a new breeding group in Mexico, helping strengthen genetic diversity and support the long-term conservation of the species.
Around 16,000 white rhinos remain in Africa, where poaching continues to pose a major threat. Zoos contribute to conservation by maintaining genetically diverse populations and supporting breeding programmes. With Europe's white rhino population growing, the transfer also helps address limited space in European facilities.
To minimise travel time, KLM transported the animals in four custom-built containers, each weighing approximately two tonnes when empty. Wami alone weighs 2.4 tonnes. While the flight took one night, preparations lasted a year. Wami underwent daily medical training to allow veterinary health checks without anaesthesia, and his keeper, Quentin Richard, accompanied him throughout the journey.
This story was originally published by STAT Times. Read the full story at STAT Times →
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