Knowsley Safari in Merseyside is celebrating a significant new arrival with the birth of a healthy Southern White Rhino calf. The female calf, named Kamari, represents a crucial success for the conservation of this near-threatened species.
A Confident Newcomer for the Crash
The calf, named Kamari – meaning 'moonlight' in Swahili – was born on November 20, 2025. Weighing an estimated 40-60kg at birth, she is described by her keepers as a healthy and confident baby. Kamari is already walking steadily, feeding from her attentive nine-year-old mother, Bayami, and displaying playful bursts of energy.
"She's already showing a confident and playful personality, which is fantastic to see at such an early stage," said Lindsay Banks, ungulates team manager at Knowsley Safari.
After energetic sprints around her pen, she happily settles down for naps. Bayami is proving to be a gentle and watchful first-time mother, carefully guiding her calf. Kamari is the second offspring for her 16-year-old father, Pembe.
A Boost for Global Conservation Efforts
The birth is particularly important for the species, which originates from South Africa and remains under severe threat in the wild primarily due to poaching. Every new calf is a vital contribution to the international breeding programme aimed at ensuring the species' survival.
Kamari is the park's third Southern White Rhino calf in five years, following Bindi in February 2024 and Amara in October 2022. Her arrival brings the total crash, or herd, at Knowsley up to ten animals.
Knowsley Safari's commitment extends beyond its own gates. The park actively supports the charity Helping Rhinos, contributing to projects that combat poaching and habitat loss in the wild.
When to Visit the New Arrival
Due to the current wet and cold winter weather, Kamari and Bayami are not yet visible on the main Safari Drive. However, on drier and milder days, visitors may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the pair in their spacious outdoor yards.
For now, the lively calf is enjoying life behind the scenes, where she has been mock-charging her keepers and showcasing her bold character. The herd benefits from two expansive paddocks spanning 60 acres, which enhance social dynamics and support breeding success.
"Every rhino birth is a huge achievement for conservation, and we're proud to be contributing to the survival of this incredible species," added Banks.
