Ricko

Ricko (born January 16, 1997) is a 2,800 pound male Eastern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli) residing at the Birmingham Zoo. He arrived at the zoo in 2005.

Rickowill be included in the zoo's Trails of Africa exhibit, currently under construction. He is also part of the Species Survival Plan, a program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to help conserve rhinos and other animals.

As part of his enrichment activities, Ricko has produced several paintings by spreading paint on boards using his upper lip. The paintings are sold as fund-raisers for the zoo. He also plays with a large ball and enjoys treats of watermelon, bananas and strawberries.

In August 2009 DuPont and Mohawk Carpets installed "SmartStrand Triexta" carpeting in Ricko's indoor exhibit area for two weeks to demonstrate its durability under harsh conditions. Chris Wade of HGTV supervised the design and installation of the carpeting. Four webcams were installed to allow internet users to observe him. Profits from t-shirt and toy sales related to the event were donated to the Zoo and to the International Rhinoceros Foundation.

External links

• SmartStrand Challenge website