The grasslands of Africa support large herds of animals-
elephants, antelope and gazelles. These animals graze on the
abundant plants that grow there. At the NC Zoo, enjoy a walking
safari though the Watani Grasslands exhibit and spot rhinos,
elephants, Thompson’s gazelle, gemsbok, waterbucks, ostriches,
and greater kudu. African elephants are the world’s largest land
mammals. Males can weigh up to 13,000 lbs. while females
typically weigh 7000 lbs. They regulate body temperature by
flapping their large ears, which are abundant with blood
vessels. Elephants use their flexible trunks for breathing,
eating, drinking and communicating. This matriarchal society
communicates through a complex system of rumbling below the
range of human sensory systems. Elephants are herbivores that
eat various grasses, bark, tree branches, fruits and leaves.
Their poor digestive systems utilize only half of what they eat.
Southern White Rhinoceros The largest of all rhinoceros species,
the southern white rhino weighs 4000-6000 lbs.