Living Desert to host 2nd annual international Desert Conservation Summit

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will be hosting the International Desert Conservation Summit this Saturday.

The second annual summit will be held virtually on Nov. 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with 10 guest speakers from Kenya, South Africa and the U.S. discussing the summit's theme of "Restoring Rhinos."

Conservation is a global effort, and we look forward to hearing from our international partners as they highlight their important work relating to saving this most unique species: rhinos,'' said Dr. James Danoff-Burg, director of conservation at The Living Desert. "These experts' commitment and dedication are to be admired and we are proud to facilitate this opportunity for the general public to share in their knowledge and passion."

The panelists will share rhino conservation stories and talk about their successes, challenges and work as a whole. The summit is open to the public and registration costs $25.

"As a leader in desert conservation efforts and coinciding with the opening of our new Rhino Savanna, The Living Desert is thrilled to host experts from around the world, sharing their knowledge and experiences with rhinos,'' said Allen Monroe, president/CEO of The Living Desert.

"While we had hoped to gather in person, this virtual event allows for even more attendees to learn the state of the rhino populations and how they can help protect these amazing species."

The Living Desert opened the Rhino Savanna last Friday. The 4-acre, $17 million habitat houses 12 African species, including two black rhinos for which the habitat is named.

The rhinos, Jaali and Nia, will be the zoo's largest animals, weighing around 3,000 pounds and standing about 5.5 feet tall at their shoulders once they reach maturity, according to officials.

To register for the summit and to learn more about The Living Desert, visit DesertConservationSummit.org.