WACO, Texas — The Cameron Park Zoo in Waco is mourning the loss of one of its longtime residents, Jabba the Southern White Rhino.
The zoo announced Jabba died "peacefully" on Tuesday, July 16.
Jabba was born at Lion Country Safari, Inc. in Florida on Feb. 25, 1981, said the zoo. He reportedly died at the age of 43, being one of the oldest males of his species in any zoo worldwide, said the Cameron Park Zoo.
The zoo stated the median life expectancy for southern white rhinos is 36.5 years, and there are only three other males older than Jabba was, the oldest being 47.
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"Jabba was a cherished member of the Cameron Park Zoo family, known for his gentle demeanor and affectionate nature," said the zoo in a release. "He particularly enjoyed his morning scratches from his dedicated care team and had a fondness for oatmeal."
The zoo said Jabba was receiving daily veterinary care for "chronic foot and hoof issues due to his advanced age." A necropsy has reportedly been ordered to determine Jabba's exact cause of death.
According to the zoo, southern white rhinos are classified as near threatened by conservation organizations due to threats in their native habitats.
"With a global zoo population of 726 individuals, each loss, including Jabba's, is keenly felt within the global conservation community," said the zoo.
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