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From: jnp@calmasd.UUCP
Newsgroups: sci.misc,sci.bio
Subject: Re: question about rhinos
Message-ID: <2266@calmasd.GE.COM>
Date: Wed, 3-Jun-87 12:32:32 EDT
Article-I.D.: calmasd.2266
Posted: Wed Jun  3 12:32:32 1987
Date-Received: Sat, 6-Jun-87 07:42:47 EDT
Organization: G.E.- Calma R&D, San Diego, CA
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Xref: utgpu sci.misc:268 sci.bio:340


> >    Anyway, the question is "Do rhinos actually put out fires?"
> > 
> > Balachander Vasireddi           

>  I've been wondering too...
>  Eric

I can't speak authoritatively - but I very much doubt it.  I know of no
animal which actually seeks out fire.  Of course insects are confused by the
light from flames, and may immolate themselves - but they weren't "seeking
flame" per se.

One explanation for what may be valid observations is the charging behaviour
of Rhinos.  These animals have poor eyesight, and are very beligerent.  Add
to this the fact that they aren't very bright, either, and you could have
Rhinos charging campfires.  They frequently charge anything which makes them
nervous.

I once read that Rhinos frequently "forget what they were charging about" in
mid-charge, and will stop running and mill around in a confused state.
Although I will never try it it has been said that if charged by a Rhino,
stay dead-still - he will "forget" about you when he no longer sees you
moving - and won't follow through. (Wow! - talk about a gamble!)

-- 
These opinions are solely mine and in no way reflect those of my employer.  
John M. Pantone @ GE/Calma R&D, Data Management Group, San Diego
...{ucbvax|decvax}!sdcsvax!calmasd!jnp          jnp@calmasd.GE.COM