Rhinoceros as a Symbol of Admiration in Setswana Indigenous Poetry, Stories and Proverbs

Abstract

This article expounds on the relationship between Batswana and the rhinoceros. The co-existence of Batswana and the rhinoceros brought the two together. There are different types of relationships like commensalism, i.e., metabiotic, phoresy and microbiota. People have utilized animals in a variety of useful relationships. Animals improve the welfare of humans in many ways, ranging from providing companionship to facilitating rescues during natural disasters and for recreation purposes. It is also believed that the Batswana learned some of their virtues from the rhino. They learn some of their virtues from metabiotic of the rhinoceros’ relationship with the oxpecker. When the Batswana prayed for rain, they emulated the rhinoceros by stomping the ground. The Batswana are loving people who look after one another. The study assesses the connection or affiliation between their genera. A mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals. It’s influenced by behaviors essential to the mental, physical and social health and well-being of both. The vegetarian’s role is to maximize the potential of this relationship and promote the well-being of people and animals. The Batswana and the rhinoceros shared space. In some areas, they work and help each other for their survival, whereas in other cases they harm each other as indicated in poetry, stories, metaphors and proverbs. This entanglement encompasses the transference of animal behavioral traits to humans. The rhinoceros played a role in helping Batswana who did not have a well where they could get water for their cows.