I grabbed a day out last week and took the last opportunity I would have to visit our local zoo now known as a BioPark before it closed for the winter.
It is situated at Doué la Fontaine and is a centre for captive breeding of certain endangered species;
included in their number are Black Rhinos. The location is ideal, being an old stone quarry with acres of room that is not unlike their true homeland habitat. I spotted the male getting a little excited at the scent being given off by the female he was with and spent the rest of my available time watching to see if I could get a shot of them mating - it is seldom seen and would be great to add to my portfolio.......
First came a nibble on the neck then a lot of pushing and shoving to show he was up her exacting requirements for a potential mate.
Then came what looked like a gentle kiss by her that was then reciprocated by him.
after a little more of the pushing the following happened
he tried to take the opportunity of what seemed to be an invitation by her, but sadly was rebuffed at the last minute
leaving him very very depressed as you can see below. I am sure that when the time is right she will let him do what comes naturally and hopefully there will a new young one who can one day be released back into the wild.
Finally I have included a far smaller creature for my last shot, of a Bank Vole who is lucky enough to live wild at the Park. I often spend as much time with these little creatures as with the
other larger animals when I visit here, as they have become used to people being around - as opposed to the ones I try to study in their more normal environment .
The BioPark at Doué has a great track record in captive breading over the past fifty years and long may it continue with the help and support of its many visitors. I would heartily recommend a visit should you have the opportunity.
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