Mating ritual may have killed male rhino

DHAKA, Bangladesh, May 20 (UPI) -- The death of a male rhino at a Bangladeshi zoo may have been caused by an injury suffered during a violent courtship ritual, investigators say.

Rhinos are known for their aggressive behavior during courtship and mating which often involves long chases and biting, Sky News reported. Officials at Dhaka Zoo said the most likely cause of death was a leg injury caused by "insane conduct during reproductive activities."

The animal named Kancha was one of two 6-month-old Indian rhinos given to Bangladesh by the late King Birendra of Nepal in 1992. Kancha's mate, Kanchi, remains in good health.

The average Indian rhino weighs between 4,000 and 6,000 pounds.