This is the cutest moment when a newborn rhino runs ahead of its mother’s heavy steps, looking just as lively as a spring lamb.
On a trip to South Africa, safari tour operator Robin Bamber took photos of a baby rhino leaping and posing for the cameras.
As her 1.8-ton mother looked on proudly, the 42 kg calf leaped and kicked about before charging towards Miss Bamber and the guests.
He got as close as 1.5 meters from the truck before turning around to retreat into the bush.
Miss Bamber found the rhinos at the end of a half-day safari in St Lucia for Heritage Tours &”Safaris.
At first glance, the little rhino looked adorable, but I was scrambling for my camera soon after. “He had guests and I all entertained and laughed.
“The female rhino started to make her way up the road away from us with the little rhino racing ahead. Then, as if to say, “Mum, watch this,” the little rhino came charging straight towards us.”
Many rhino species are endangered, and three are actually classified as critically endangered. Poaching is mostly due to persistent illegal hunting, especially for their horns, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Rhinos have two large horns that may grow up 5 feet long, with the larger one being significantly longer than, the smaller one.
Both males and females use their horns as weapons, but for different reasons. Males use them to court and fight predators, whereas females use theirs to protect their young.