(CNS) – The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will host the International Desert Conservation Summit this Saturday.

The second annual summit will be held virtually on November 20 from 9:30 am to 4 pm with 10 guest speakers from Kenya, South Africa and the United States discussing the summit theme “Restoring the Rhinos”.

“Conservation is a global effort, and we look forward to hearing from our international partners as they highlight their important work in saving this most unique species: rhinos,” said Dr James Danoff-Burg, director of conservation at The Living Desert.

“The commitment and dedication of these experts are to be admired and we are proud to facilitate this opportunity for the general public to share their knowledge and passion. “

Panelists will share stories about rhino conservation 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 delighted to welcome experts from around the world, sharing their knowledge and experiences with rhinos,” said Allen Monroe, President / CEO of The Living Desert.

“While we were hoping to come together in person, this virtual event allows even more attendees to learn about the state of 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 dollar habitat is home to 12 African species, including two black rhinos for which the habitat is named. The rhinos, Jaali and Nia, will be the largest animals in the zoo, weighing around 3,000 pounds and standing about 5.5 feet tall on their shoulders once they reach maturity, officials say.

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

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