FILE - In this June 15, 1997 file photo, Ozzy Osbourne performs with Black Sabbath during the Ozzfest concert at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, file)
Share this @internewscast.com

() Add one more tribute to Ozzy Osbourne in the wake of the icon’s passing this month: A wildlife preserve in California’s wine country has named a rhino calf after the heavy metal legend.

Safari West in Sonoma County says the male southern white rhinoceros came into the world the morning of July 22, the same day Osbourne, 76, died following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Officials said it was only natural to give the animal the Ozzy moniker.

“While known for his bold persona, Osbourne remains a symbol of cultural legacy and endurance qualities we celebrate with the arrival of this new life. The timing of the birth offers a quiet reminder of the circle of life that unfolds across generations and species,” Safari West said in an online post featuring photographs and video of the new rhino.

The calf was born to a 20-year-old southern white rhino named Eesha. The rhino that sired the newborn, Ongava, resides at the wildlife preserve through an agreement with The Indianapolis Zoo. Both institutions will share stewardship of Ozzy, officials said.

FILE - In this June 15, 1997 file photo, Ozzy Osbourne performs with Black Sabbath during the Ozzfest concert at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, file)
FILE – In this June 15, 1997 file photo, Ozzy Osbourne performs with Black Sabbath during the Ozzfest concert at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, file)

Southern white rhinos are classified as “Near Threatened,” according to the World Wildlife Fund. About 18,000 of the animals live within protected areas and private game reserves. Most occur in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Trump’s NATO Clash: Transatlantic Tensions Escalate Over Controversial Middle East Conflict

LONDON – In a move that could significantly alter the landscape of…

Greene County Candidates Reveal Their Plans for Mayoral and Sheriff Roles

Residents of Greene County, Tennessee, had the opportunity to engage directly with…

NFL Commits to Upholding Rooney Rule Amid Legal Challenge from Florida Attorney General

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – The National Football League is holding its ground regarding…

Sullivan County Child Advocacy Center Marks 35 Years of Dedication to Youth Support

In a significant milestone, the Child Advocacy Center of Sullivan County, the…

Orange County’s Future Animal Haven: Groundbreaking Ceremony Heralds 2027 Opening

In Orlando, Florida, construction has commenced on a state-of-the-art animal shelter, marking…

Shocking Health Hazards: Central Florida Restaurants Plagued by Rodent Infestations

ORLANDO, Fla. – Recently, more than a dozen dining establishments in Central…

Florida AG Advocates for Gun Rights Expansion: Non-Dangerous Felons Must Be Allowed Firearm Ownership

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In a bold move on Tuesday morning, Florida Attorney…