Rare northern white rhinoceros Nola dies to leave three left in the world
Nola was known for her love of back scratches and mild manner
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A rare northern white rhino has died in San Diego Zoo Sarafi Park, leaving just three across the world.
The 41-year-old female called Nola had received treatment for an infection before undergoing surgery, according to a statement from the zoo.
She was placed under vetinary watch for a week after her activity levels and appetite declined, but the zoo decided to euthanise her after she took a turn for the worse.
The 4,000-pound (1,800-kg) white rhino was the only one of her kind left in captivity in the Western Hemisphere, with her death leaving three others remaining in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.
"Nola was an iconic animal, not only at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, but worldwide," the zoo said in a statement.
"Through the years, millions of people learned about Nola and the plight of rhinos in the wild through visits to the Safari Park, numerous media stories and social media posts."
Nola was known for her love of back scratches and gentle disposition, making her a favourite among zoo staff.
The species was declared extinct in the wild in 2008 because of poachers hunting them for their horns, but Nola had lived in the San Diego zoo since she was captured in 1989 at age of two.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments