In designing facilities to maximize rhino health and reproductive success, it is important that the environment contain as many salient features as possible found in the natural environment (for more detailed information on the natural habitats of the various rhino species, see the Behavior chapter). The species to be exhibited will dictate the design of rhino facilities, as species differ in their group compositions and enclosure requirements. Additionally, whether an institution wishes to maintain rhinos only for exhibit or for breeding will determine the design of rhino enclosures.

Whenever possible, institutions are encouraged to plan for breeding capabilities, but the various SSP coordinators and RAG chairs recognize the need for display-only exhibits, which can facilitate education and/or research. These exhibits serve rhino management programs by holding non-re- productive and single-sex specimens. The following section outlines design considerations for indoor and outdoor rhino facilities, as well as aspects of chute design for rhino restraint.