Hampshire zoo welcomes birth of Okapi calf
The news comes just in time for today’s World Okapi Day
Marwell Zoo has welcomed the birth of an endangered Okapi - just in time for today's World Okapi Day.
The arrival marks the third Okapi birth at the zoo in just three years.
Often called the forest giraffe, the Okapi is known for its striking zebra-like stripes.
Zoe Newnham, Hoofstock Keeper, said: “We’re so excited to have another Okapi birth here at Marwell.
“This amazing achievement is a testament to the skill and dedication of the zoo’s animal care team and their success within the EAZA Ex-situ Breeding Programme (EEP), helping to support this endangered species.
“Our team works hard to ensure the Okapi’s have the best care, while closely replicating their wild habitat.
“Before the arrival of the new calf, we created a dark, warm, cosy area known as a ‘creep’ to give mum, Daphne, space and privacy with the newborn, just as Okapi would in the wild.
“Daphne’s a fantastic mum and this calf is already showing signs of being curious and confident.”
To allow Daphne and her calf plenty of peace and quiet, the Okapi House will remain temporarily closed, but guests will still be able to see the other Okapi in the neighbouring habitat.
Zoe added: “In the wild, Okapi calves spend their first 40 to 60 days hidden away in their creep nesting. During this time, Okapi calves have evolved to not defecate, as any scent may attract predators, keeping them safe in their nesting period.
“To support this natural behaviour, we keep human interaction to a minimum and give mum and baby as much privacy as possible. This helps reduce potential stress and allows them to bond undisturbed."
The calf will remain indoors through the colder months, only venturing outdoors when temperatures rise in the spring.