This video will fix whatever is wrong with your day. You’re welcome!
Nelspruit, South Africa (31 March 2026) – The newest (and perhaps muddiest) member of the Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary family has us smiling from ear to ear.
At just over three weeks old, a tiny white rhino calf is already making a big splash. In an adorable video shared by the sanctuary this week, the little bull is captured discovering the absolute joy of a good old-fashioned mud wallow.
“Rose’s baby, now just over 3 weeks old, is already enjoying the delights of a mud wallow. His mom took him to the shallow end, but he made sure to fully immerse himself, rolling onto his side, coating his face, and learning not to inhale the mud and water.” the sanctuary shares.
While the calf practiced his ‘mud-bath’ skills, his mama, Rose, took the opportunity for a well-deserved break. Being a rhino mom is tough work.
“Meanwhile, Rose rested quietly next to him, enjoying a few moments of peace and quiet while her little boy kept himself entertained for quite a while, as rangers watched in awe close by… How amazing to see such confidence in such a young calf just because Mom is nearby!”
This playful moment is even more special when you know Rose’s history from heartbreak to hope.
“Rose was rescued in 2017 after poachers shot and fatally injured her mother. Left orphaned and alone, she was fortunately found in time by rescuers and brought to Care for Wild. Here, she began her long journey of rehabilitation and grew up alongside fellow orphans…”
Rose is no longer an orphan in need of a mom, but now a mama herself, raising the next generation in a protected space! It’s a beautiful reminder that even after tragedy, there is space for hope, healing, and lots of mud!
by 