You may have heard that a male rhino is a “bull” and a female rhino is a “cow,” but do you know what a group of rhinoceroses is called?

The common assumption is that a pack of rhinos is called a “herd,” which usually refers to a group of animals (typically with hooves) that congregate together to find food and protection. But that’s not the correct collective term for rhinos. 

In fact, some rhino species don’t even like to live in groups, so are they called something different?

What Is a Herd of Rhinoceroses Called?

A group of rhinos is called a “crash.”

This term applies to both black rhinos and white rhinos, despite their differing social behaviors. Black rhinos generally do not form social connections beyond mating season or a mother-child pairing. In contrast, white rhinos tend to stay in small family units, typically comprising females and their offspring, or larger groups led by a dominant male who defends the group.

While “crash” may seem like an odd term for a group of rhinoceroses, it makes a lot more sense when you know the type of behavior rhinos can get up to when they’re in a group! 

Why Is a Group of Rhinos Called a Crash?

The term “crash” comes from the rhino’s speed. Rhinos can run up to 30 miles per hour. However, there is one caveat: While rhinos can run fast, their vision is not very good, so when you see a rhino running, it’s best to get out of the way before they crash into you.

“Crash” is also a reflection of the rhino’s behavior. They’re known to charge predators at top speed to defend themselves from potential danger. In addition, rhinos often make a honking sound when they’re running as a way of communicating their presence to other members of the crash. Other group members know to move out of the way, but outsiders may not be as lucky. 

How Do You Use ‘Crash’ as a Collective Noun?

A “crash” is a collective noun, which is used to describe a group of something, whether it’s people, things or animals. You’ve probably heard or used collective nouns in your everyday life, such as “a team of soccer players” or “a bushel of apples.” 

Examples of Collective Nouns for Animals 

Collective nouns are often used to describe a group of animals. Some of them are commonly known:

• Brood of hens
• Flock of birds
• Gaggle of geese
• Murder of crows
• Pride of lions
• School of fish
• Swarm of bees

Others, like a “crash of rhinos,” are not as well known:

• A battery of barracudas
• A convocation of eagles
• A dole of doves
• A parliament of owls
• A shrewdness of apes
• A sounder of boars
• A troop of baboons

Collective nouns, including a “crash,” are used in their singular form no matter how many individuals are involved in the group. If you want to quantify the group, just add a number to it, such as “a crash of 30 rhinos.” 

A Crash Course in Grammar

A “crash” may seem like an odd way to describe a group of rhinos, but it makes more sense when you know how rhinos behave when they’re in a group. And this is why understanding collective nouns for animals is so interesting. It not only boosts our vocabulary and gives a fun fact to share at a party, but it also helps us better understand how animals interact in their natural environments. 

If you’ve found these unique terms interesting and want to learn more about which word takes precedence over another, check out our grammar tips and tricks.