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Nola the northern white rhino loved her pedicures and back scratches. Fellow rhino Chuck was her biggest fan, although millions of human admirers loved her from near and far. Despite everyone's best efforts, she never had a calf. She seemed to appreciate the loving care lavished on her by keepers and other staff members, especially in her golden years. As one of a mere four northern white rhinoceros left on the planet in 2015, she was a noble ambassador for her kind. When Nola passed away at the Safari Park in the early hours of November 22, 2015, her death left a huge hole in hearts around the world. Nola was 41 years old when she passed away from a bacterial infection and other age-related health issues, a good, long life for a rhino. She had a way of bringing out the best in people to the end. “Whatever we needed for Nola, everyone stepped in to help,” said keeper Jane Kennedy, both within San Diego Zoo Global and beyond. Scores of get well cards for the ailing rhino arrived by mail, then followed by heartfelt condolences from around the world—many from children, who paid touching tribute to Nola with drawings and notes. Nola was an inspiration to all who met her, and her passing galvanized the resolve to continue the fight to save rhinos.

2015

End Extinction 2007 - 2016

San Diego Zoo Global and people around the world said a heartfelt farewell to Nola the northern white rhino in 2015.

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