Newquay Zoo welcomes new arrival from Devon
It's hoped the couple will become a breeding pair
Newquay Zoo has welcomed a new arrival - a male zebra from Devon.
Seven-year-old Parsley, a Chapman's zebra has joined a six-year-old female, Luna, in the savannah habitat.
It's hoped the couple will become a breeding pair.
It's hoped the male Chapman’s zebra (Equus quagga chapmani) and Luna will form a breeding pair in the near future, helping to secure the future of this charismatic subspecies of the plains zebra.
John Meek, Curator of Plants & Animals at Newquay Zoo said: “Chapman’s zebras are known for their striking striped patterns and strong social bonds.
"We’re hopeful that this beautiful new male zebra will build a strong connection with Luna and eventually contribute to the breeding success of the species.
"He’s already shown great interest in Luna and the other animals on the savannah so we’re all feeling very positive about his introduction this weekend.”
Chapman’s zebras are native to southern Africa and are currently considered a subspecies of least concern. However, like many plains species, they face increasing threats from habitat fragmentation and human encroachment.
Responsible zoo breeding programmes play a key role in raising awareness and maintaining a genetically healthy population under human care.