By Salma Dhalla
Herald Intern
PJ, the rhino at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is here to stay! The beloved rhino will no
longer be relocating to the Buffalo Zoo as originally planned. Zoo officials recently confirmed that the
transfer has been canceled and that PJ will remain at the Central Florida Zoo.
The move had been planned as part of an effort among various zoos to manage animal populations and
coordinate long-term care. Transfers between facilities can occur for several reasons, one of which
include breeding programs. Erin Bussom, a General Curator for the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical
Gardens explained why PJ was originally scheduled to move to the Buffalo Zoo and how these decisions
are made: “PJ was originally scheduled to move to the Buffalo Zoo to take part in a breeding program for
his species. As part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), we participate in several
conservation initiatives called Species Survival Plans (SSP).
” She further explains that these programs
exist to “help preserve diverse genetics so that these animals in human care could potentially help to
rebuild the wild populations.
” PJ was ultimately found to be a genetic match for a female greater
one-horned rhino at the Buffalo Zoo,
“with the intent to breed.
”
Following further review, the plan to relocate PJ was ultimately stopped. Zoo representatives say the
decision came after additional discussions regarding the easiest method to allow for breeding for a female
Rhino in the Buffalo Zoo.
Bussom added that the decision for PJ to move north was “cancelled by the SSP.
” The SSP ultimately
“found another male rhino that was also a genetic match for the breeding female at Buffalo Zoo,
” and that
“considering the logistics of transferring a 4,000-pound animal to another part of the country, it made
more sense to go with a male that was already located much closer.
”
PJ also receives many benefits to this cancelled trip as staying at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical
Gardens means that “he won’t have to undergo the stress of a long road trip, and he won’t have to adjust
to a new climate in an environment he’s not familiar with.
” Canceling the transfer ultimately allows for PJ
to stay with “the keepers he’s already developed relationships with” says Bussom.
PJ has been a recognizable presence at the Central Florida Zoo and is a popular animal among visitors.
Guests frequently gather near his habitat to observe his behavior and learn more about his species. While
PJ is staying for the time being, there is always a possibility that there may be future breeding
opportunities for him elsewhere. If this is the case Bussom emphasizes that many who visit PJ frequently
will “miss him” but will “be happy for him too,
” as breeding is “what he was born to do!”
Animals like PJ also play an important role in education and conservation efforts. By seeing species such
as the rhino up close, visitors can learn about the challenges these animals face in the wild and the work
being done to protect them. The Central Florida Zoo has also allowed visitors to get up close and personal
with PJ as they have introduced a Rhino Encounter initiative. This encounter allows for parties of up to
five to book time slots and create meaningful connections with PJ.
For now, PJ will continue living at the Central Florida Zoo, where guests will still have the opportunity to
see him and learn about the conservation of rhinos and other wildlife.
