Racine Zoo announces departure of Eastern Black Rhino 'Kianga'

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Racine Zoo is saying farewell to a guest favorite -- Eastern Black Rhino "Kianga." 

With a "bittersweet heart," the zoo announced Friday that Kianga will be transferred to a different facility.

They say the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) breeding recommendations suggest he should be relocated to another zoo to reproduce. As an active member of the Species Survival Plan, the Racine Zoo says they're proud to help with conservation efforts of this endangered species. 

"We are sad to see him go but so excited for his future and what that means to his kind," the zoo's executive director, Beth Heidorn, said. 

While sad to see him go, the Racine Zoo says Kianga will help create a genetically diverse population of Eastern Black Rhinos within AZA-accredited zoos.

The last day to visit Kianga will be Oct. 23.