Two young male southern white rhinos have moved into the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance’s pachyderm habitat, marking the first time the organization has cared for the species. Viazi, 4, and Mkuu, 3, are settling into their outdoor habitat and getting acquainted with one another, the zoo said. The habitat was updated after black rhino Rudy, who had lived there, died in May. Viazi was born at Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay, where his care team nicknamed him “Little Tater Tot.” Mkuu arrived from ZooTampa; his former caregivers described him as playful and fond of attention and enrichment. The two males’ placement reflects a broader approach to rhino conservation, the zoo said. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan supports healthy populations in several ways, including providing homes for males that may later contribute to breeding programs or live in bachelor groups. The announcement came days after the zoo reported that Rupert, a greater one-horned rhino, had died. Rupert arrived earlier this year following a breeding recommendation, but developed gastrointestinal symptoms about a month later. His health worsened, and he died Saturday evening, Oct. 10, the zoo said. The zoo said Rupert’s illness was an isolated case and that Tensing, its female greater one-horned rhino, has no health concerns. Animal care staff said they were grateful to have cared for Rupert, who enjoyed playing with a large ball, swimming and interacting with his keepers. With Rudy’s death in May and Rupert’s death this month, the zoo has lost two rhinos this year. Viazi and Mkuu now bring a new species to the Denver collection as the zoo’s staff continue caring for its remaining rhinos.