Florida zookeeper injured by rhino released from hospital

Photo: Jacksonville Zoo

A Florida zookeeper has returned home after being injured by a white rhinoceros in its zoo enclosure.

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Executive Director Tony Vecchio says the woman was released from a hospital Wednesday morning.

 

"We are extremely relieved and happy to know that our colleague is doing well," Vecchio said on the zoo's Facebook page. "We are grateful for the outpouring of support and concern during this difficult time."

No details about her injuries were immediately available.

RELATED: Jacksonville zookeeper transported after making contact with rhino during training session

In a Jacksonville Times-Union report , Vecchio said the 4,000-pound rhino named Archie "bumped her with his horn" during a routine training session Tuesday morning.

Zoo officials said Archie is a "long-term and loved member of the Zoo" and remains on exhibit with other rhinos. Archie was born in 1969 and has been at the Jacksonville zoo since 1975.

Vecchio said the zoo is investigating the incident.

Information from: The (Jacksonville) Florida Times-Union, http://www.jacksonville.com

The Associated Press contributed to this report