How do rhinos attack?

Charging and Goring

Rhinos are herbivores and are generally calm animals. However, they can become aggressive when threatened. When a rhino feels threatened, it will typically charge at the perceived threat. Rhinos can run up to 35 miles per hour (56 kilometers per hour) and can deliver a powerful blow with their horns.

Rhinos have one horn on their snout and one or two smaller horns above their eyes. The horn on the snout is the primary weapon of a rhinoceros. It can be up to 5 feet (1.52 meters) long and can weigh up to 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms). The horns are made of keratin, the same material as human fingernails.

When a rhinoceros charges, it will lower its head and use its horn to spear its target. The horn can penetrate deep into the flesh and can cause serious injuries or death. Rhinos have been known to charge and gore vehicles, trees, and even other rhinos.

Hooking and Slashing

In addition to charging and goring, rhinos can also use their horns to hook and slash at their targets. Rhinos can swing their heads from side to side, delivering powerful blows with their horns. They can also use their horns to slash at the legs or belly of an opponent.

Rhinos are powerful animals that can inflict serious injuries on humans and other animals. It is important to respect the power of rhinos and to avoid doing anything that could threaten them.