On 6 July at 7:50 am, we experienced one of the most exciting and significant moments in Terra Natura Benidorm’s history: the birth of a male Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis). This remarkable arrival marks an important milestone for our park, as Brutus is the third Indian rhinoceros to be born at Terra Natura Benidorm and only the third ever born in Spain. It is an achievement that fills us with immense pride and reflects the years of dedication we have devoted to the conservation of this endangered species. We are also the only zoological park in Spain to have successfully bred Indian rhinoceroses.

Brutus’ birth represents far more than the arrival of a new calf. It is another important success for international conservation programmes and further demonstrates that Terra Natura Benidorm has the expertise, facilities and dedicated team required to play a leading role in the conservation and breeding of this remarkable species.

The proud mother is Shiwa, our 24-year-old female Indian rhinoceros, who has now given birth for the third time. The father, Jaffna, together with Shiwa, are a key breeding pair within the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), making a valuable contribution to safeguarding the genetic diversity of the species.

The birth took place in our specially designed breeding area, where Shiwa was provided with a peaceful and private environment throughout the final stages of her pregnancy. Our experienced team of keepers, veterinarians and animal care specialists closely monitored the birth at all times, allowing nature to take its course and intervening only if absolutely necessary.

In the days leading up to the birth, several familiar signs indicated that the calf’s arrival was imminent. Increased milk production and subtle behavioural changes in Shiwa confirmed what our team had anticipated through years of experience working with Indian rhinoceroses.

The birth itself was remarkably quick and completely natural. Only a few seconds passed between Shiwa’s waters breaking and the calf being born. Everything progressed smoothly, and no assistance or veterinary intervention was required.

Following an initial visual assessment, we confirmed that both mother and calf were in excellent condition. One week later, a full veterinary examination revealed that the newborn is a healthy, strong male weighing 53 kilograms.

Brutus has continued to thrive from the very beginning. He was able to stand within less than an hour of being born and, just five hours later, was suckling independently without any assistance. These are extremely encouraging milestones and provide further reassurance that both mother and calf are developing exactly as expected.

While the birth itself lasts only a matter of minutes, it is the result of many months of careful planning, observation and dedication. More than ten members of our animal care team—including keepers, veterinarians and technical specialists—were involved in monitoring Shiwa before, during and after the birth. Thanks to their expertise, commitment and years of experience, we are delighted to celebrate another important achievement for the conservation of the Indian rhinoceros and to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to protecting biodiversity for future generations.