Construction Update May 2020: Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve

Construction on the new Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve began this winter and continues into the spring, on course for a summer opening of the Zoo's newest habitat.

New features in this habitat include a large new rhino yard, the Jean Kalberer Rhino Yard, and an additional viewing deck area for guests, donated by Larry Gogolick.

Where the former Monkey Island exhibit used to exist, there is now a leveled area of land representing the beginnings of the soon-to-be Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve. Barrier walls are going up, the new bull barn is nearing completion and the rhinos' newest shade structure is starting to take shape.

This project would not have been possible without the help of generous Zoo Society donors. In honor of Daniel Maltz's gift, the Reserve will be named after him. Equally generous support from The Walter E. and Jean C. Kalberer Foundation will fund the project’s Walter Kalberer Bull Barn and Jean Kalberer Rhino Yard.

The beginning stages of the exhibit sign, the Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve.

Railing is going up and the Walter Kalberer Bull Barn is almost complete.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve as the next habitat at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo,” said Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Executive Director Chris Kuhar. “Daniel and the Kalberer family are passionate advocates of both animal welfare and conservation, and their gifts will help provide a new home for the Zoo’s growing herd.”

Plans to significantly expand the rhino habitat were announced last year and construction began in September. The Zoo Society Board of Directors has committed to fully fund the $2.5 million project.

The shade structure, donated by the Hanes Family Foundation, is getting a roof and water misters installed.

A fun new enrichment log for the rhinos. Donated by The Bicknell Fund.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has had significant success in breeding critically endangered Eastern black rhinoceros including the birth of two calves in 2018. Eastern black rhinoceros are critically endangered and less than 750 remain in the wild due to poaching and habitat loss.

“The Zoo Society works each day to raise funds that support the vision of the Zoo, and we are so pleased that our donors and friends continue to be excited about new habitats that provide exceptional animal care and enhanced visitor experiences,” said Cleveland Zoo Society Executive Director Sarah Crupi.