Indianapolis Zoo says goodbye to 36-year-old southern white rhino

INDIANAPOLIS — A southern white rhinoceros has died after spending the last 17 years at the Indianapolis Zoo.

According to an Indianapolis Zoo Facebook post , 36-year-old Spike has passed away after the zoo’s medical staff recently found a cancerous tumor in one of his legs. The zoo said Spike was “beloved by his keepers and by Zoo guests” since his arrival in October of 2007 when he was 19.

Despite the cancerous tumor, Spike managed to stay within the median lifespan for a typical southern white rhino, which measures to about 36.5 years.

“He was a laid back and relaxed rhino bull who got along with everyone. He was the highlight of hundreds of behind-the-scenes tours and always enjoyed getting alfalfa snacks, pets and attention from his keepers. He will be greatly missed by Zoo staff, volunteers and guests,” the social media post concluded.

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