Jomo, the Pittsburgh Zoo's last remaining rhinoceros, dies at 30
April 17, 2026
The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium announced the passing of Jomo, a 30-year-old eastern black rhinoceros, who was humanely euthanized on April 16 following a period of declining health. The death of the beloved rhino, one of the oldest males in North America, marks the end of an era for the institution, as he was the last remaining rhinoceros at the zoo. Jomo had been suffering from several age-related conditions, and in his final weeks, his health deteriorated significantly, with increased lethargy and a loss of appetite. Zoo officials determined that humane euthanasia was the most compassionate choice.
Born at the San Diego Zoo in 1995, Jomo was hand-raised before moving to Pittsburgh in 1996. Over nearly three decades, he became a cherished figure for staff and visitors alike. Jomo lived considerably longer than the median life expectancy for his species, which is just over 20 years. During his time in Pittsburgh, he played a vital role in conservation efforts, siring two female calves, Janine in 2012 and Kesi in 2017. His lineage continued when his daughter Janine gave birth to a male calf, Tamu, in 2023, making Jomo a grandfather.
Zoo staff remembered Jomo for his gentle disposition. "Jomo was one of the nicest animals in the Zoo,” said Dr. Chris Bonar, Vice President of Living Collections. “In fact, he was one of the nicest animals that I ever met. He will be greatly missed.” Assistant Curator of Mammals Karen Vacco, who knew Jomo since his arrival, shared her personal connection, stating, "I will miss giving him back rubs until he fell asleep and the baby soft spot behind his ears." Even as his health failed, Jomo was a cooperative patient, willingly participating in his own care by allowing the veterinary team to draw blood and administer treatments. In his final months, he was often not seen by the public as he preferred the comfort of his indoor barn.
Jomo's passing leaves the zoo without a rhinoceros for the first time since the facility opened in 1898, when a rhino was among its first residents. Officials have indicated that after a period of grieving, they will evaluate the future of the rhino habitat at the zoo. The loss is felt deeply within the zoo community, which has seen the departure of several older, long-term animal residents in recent years.
The death of Jomo also highlights the precarious situation of his species. Eastern black rhinos are listed as Critically Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List. Once numbering in the tens of thousands, the black rhino population plummeted due to widespread poaching and habitat loss. While intensive conservation efforts have led to a slow recovery in wild populations, the species remains under severe threat. Animals like Jomo in accredited zoos serve as important ambassadors, helping to educate the public and support global conservation initiatives aimed at preserving these magnificent animals for future generations.
Source: postgazette