Ep 15. New Rhino on the Block

In this episode of Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa, animal lovers are in for a treat. The team at ZooTampa at Lowry Park introduces viewers to a new arrival, a Southern white rhino named Jaime. This fascinating creature, weighing over 4,000 pounds, stands nine feet tall and has a body so massive, it could easily crush a car. It's a stunning sight to behold, and as the team shares the ins and outs of its care and feeding, audience members get a glimpse into the life of the magnificent rhinoceros.

Zookeepers create a stress-free environment for Jaime, doing everything in their power to make her feel at home in her new surroundings. The episode shows how they instill trust over time, earning her confidence and slowly building a bond with the rhino. The zookeepers also describe the many challenges they face in keeping such a large, powerful creature healthy, and they explain how they ensure she gets the right diet, exercise, and medical attention.

But Jaime isn't the only focus of the series. Viewers are also introduced to a group of African painted dogs, a unique and playful species of canine that is sadly endangered. As the zoo team works tirelessly to protect and care for these animals, viewers are given an up-close look at their feeding habits and social structure. It is heartbreaking to hear about how their numbers are dwindling due to human interference, but the team remains resolute in their goal to help bring this species back from the brink of extinction.

As the episode progresses, the cameras follow the keepers as they conduct a medical scan on a clouded leopard. This procedure isn't without its challenges, as the leopard is naturally a solitary creature and doesn't take well to being handled. However, thanks to the vast knowledge and skill of the zoo team, the scan is done successfully, revealing important information about the leopard's overall health and wellbeing.

The episode also focuses on the majestic African elephant, one of the most beloved animals at the zoo. The team talks about the important role that these gentle giants play in their native habitats, and they share fascinating information about their complex social structure. The zookeepers also describe the many surgeries and medical procedures that the elephants undergo, and how important it is to keep them in good health.

Throughout the episode, visitors to the zoo are shown alongside the team's daily work. These guests are captivated by the animals and visibly moved by the experience. Some of them are young children, who undoubtedly grow up with a much deeper appreciation and understanding for the challenges facing animal conservationists.

At the end of the program, viewers are left with a true sense of awe and wonder. From the massive rhino to the playful painted dogs, the episode showcases the beauty and complexity of the natural world, and the importance of protecting these creatures for generations to come. As the zoo team bids farewell to their visitors and to the animals they care for, one thing is clear; this is a team that is devoted to making a positive impact on our world, and they are truly living their mission every day.