White rhino populations in the Eastern Cape: distribution, perfomance and diet

White rhinoceros did not occur historically in the Eastern Cape (Skead 2007). However, they were introduced in the Eastern Cape in state-run reserves and private land (Shrader 2006). White rhino have been introduced for various reasons in the Eastern Cape including conservation, ecotourism and hunting. The habitats into which these introductions have occurred range from Karoo to Thicket and include grasslands. As a megaherbivore and a specialist grazer (Owen-Smith 1974), it is predicted that this species will alter the dynamics of grass communities at these sites, alternatively, the paucity of grass at most sites may be limiting to these populations.