The terms “white rhino” and “black rhino” frequently lead to misconceptions, as their names do not accurately reflect their actual coloration. Both species are generally grey, with variations often influenced by the mud or soil they wallow in within their habitats. The distinctions between these two African rhinoceros species extend far beyond a misleading color difference, encompassing significant variations in their physical characteristics, feeding habits, preferred environments, and social behaviors. Understanding these specific differences provides clearer insights into these large mammals.
Physical Distinctions
The most apparent physical difference between the white and black rhinoceros lies in their lip shape. The white rhinoceros possesses a broad, flat, and square-shaped lip, which is hairless and designed for efficient grazing. Conversely, the black rhinoceros has a pointed, prehensile upper lip, often described as hooked, which it uses to grasp leaves and twigs. This specialized lip allows for selective browsing of vegetation.
White rhinos are notably larger and heavier than black rhinos. White rhinos can stand between 1.6 to 1.8 meters (5.25 to 6.10 feet) at the shoulder and weigh from 1,700 to 2,300 kg. In contrast, black rhinos are smaller, typically standing 1.4 to 1.6 meters (4.5 to 5.5 feet) tall and weighing between 800 to 1,400 kg.
This size difference is also reflected in their body build; white rhinos have a large, barrel-shaped body and a massive head supported by a prominent nuchal hump, which allows them to hold their head low for grazing. Black rhinos, being more compact, generally lack this pronounced hump and hold their heads higher. Their ears also differ; black rhinos have powerful, tube-shaped ears that can rotate in all directions, enhancing their hearing.
Dietary and Habitat Preferences
The distinct lip structures of the two species directly correspond to their differing diets and, consequently, their preferred habitats. White rhinos are specialized grazers, meaning their diet consists almost exclusively of grasses. Their wide, square lips function like a lawnmower, allowing them to crop large amounts of short grass close to the ground. This feeding adaptation means white rhinos primarily inhabit open grasslands and savannas where abundant grass is available.
Black rhinos are browsers, utilizing their pointed, prehensile lips to pluck leaves, shoots, twigs, and branches from bushes and trees. They can also strip bark from branches. This dietary preference leads black rhinos to favor denser bushland, thick scrub, and woodland areas, which offer a rich supply of woody plants and shrubs.
Behavioral Characteristics
Differences in feeding habits also influence the social structures and temperaments of white and black rhinos. White rhinos are generally more social and can form groups called “crashes” or herds, sometimes comprising up to 14 individuals, often females with their calves. Adult males, while often territorial, may tolerate sub-adult bulls within their domain. This social disposition means they are often observed in more open environments.
Black rhinos are largely solitary animals, with the exception of mating pairs or females with calves. Males are territorial and can be aggressive. They mark their territories using dung piles and urine, and by rubbing their heads or horns against tree trunks. While black rhinos are known for their unpredictable nature and can charge at perceived threats, recent studies suggest that female and sub-adult black rhinos can exhibit some social behavior and share ranges.
Unraveling the Names
The origin of the “white” rhinoceros name is a misinterpretation of the Afrikaans word “wyd” (or Dutch “wijd”), meaning “wide.” This refers to the animal’s broad, square mouth. Early English settlers likely misunderstood “wyd” as “white,” leading to the alternative name, “square-lipped rhinoceros.”
The “black” rhinoceros was likely named to differentiate it from the “white” rhinoceros. It is also known by its more accurate descriptor, the “hook-lipped rhinoceros,” reflecting its pointed upper lip. The names are not based on skin pigmentation but rather on a linguistic misunderstanding and a need for distinction.