Touran Bristow lives on a wildlife reserve in South Africa, where her husband works as an anti-poaching ranger protecting the endangered rhinos that roam the land.
Over time, Bristow has grown accustomed to seeing the majestic creatures while riding her horses, Magnum and Soiux, along the reserve’s trails.
But one day, she and her horses had an encounter they’ll never forget.
While Bristow rode Soiux, with Magnum following behind, a lone rhino appeared on the path ahead.
“It’s relatively common for me to see them while riding,” Bristow told The Dodo. “I started filming, expecting it to snort and trot off as they usually do.”
Then something unexpected happened. Magnum, who had been lagging behind, slowly approached the rhino.
“Out of nowhere, Magnum walked past me and up to the rhino,” Bristow said. “Both were full of curiosity.”
From a safe distance, Bristow watched as the horse and rhino seemed to size each other up, neither showing aggression. “To be honest, I was terrified,” she admitted. “Magnum has never been that close to a rhino before. This was a highly unusual encounter.”
After a few tense but peaceful moments, the pair parted ways, with Magnum trotting back to join Bristow and Soiux.
Because rhinos are typically shy, Bristow wondered if the two might have met before. “My horses live in a fenced area next to our house, separated from wildlife when not being ridden,” she explained. “Maybe the rhino had approached the paddock at some point. They just seemed familiar with each other.”
Magnum has already proven to have a friendly spirit toward animals big and small.
Magnum’s gentle nature made the encounter possible. “He is the kindest animal I have ever encountered,” Bristow said.
While some viewers have questioned letting Magnum approach a wild rhino, Bristow stressed that her horse is highly aware of his surroundings and responsive to potential threats. What unfolded was a rare, peaceful moment, defying the rhino’s sometimes intimidating reputation.
Bristow and her husband hope the footage also reminds people why protecting these incredible animals is so important. “I’ve always had profound respect for rhinos,” she said. “My husband dedicates his life to conserving them and preventing harm. Encounters like this highlight why their survival matters.”
