Where Did Rhinos Originate From?

The rhinoceros, commonly referred to as the rhino, is one of the oldest species of animals still roaming the planet, and one of the most unique. Rhinos are native to a few areas of the world.

Although we do not know exactly where rhinos originate from, they are typically found in both Africa and southern Asia, and depending on where they live, they are divided into a few different subspecies. 

Rhinos and Dinosaurs

Rhinos are found to have many characteristics in common with dinosaurs. They are large in size and have thick, rough skin that provides a major protective barrier against various types of predators and injuries. Their brains are small compared to their size, and they use their teeth to grind up plant matter for food in a way that is very similar to what is believed about prehistoric plant-eating dinosaurs. 

Rhinos in Africa

Rhinos found in Africa are divided into two species: white and black rhinos.

• It is estimated that they have been separate species for over five million years.
• The two share most characteristics, but differ in their eating habits.
• White rhinos eat mainly grass and ground plants, and thus have wide, flat mouths, while black rhinos are typically leaf-eaters and have long, tubular mouths to serve their purposes.
• Interestingly, their colors have nothing to do with the two species being delineated from one another; they are not black and white.

Asian Rhinos

In Asia, rhinos are found in various locations including India and Nepal.

• It is believed that rhinos used to roam a much larger area of the continent, including Pakistan and China, but they have been narrowed down to small slivers of land due to human development and hunting.
• Indian rhinos are protected and are very few in number.

So, now you know where rhinos originated from, as well as some other facts about this amazing animal.