Endangered zebra born at West Midlands Safari Park
Keepers there say its a significant milestone in the conservation efforts of the Grevy zebra.
An endangered zebra has been born at West Midlands Safari Park, with his keepers claiming it as a significant milestone in conservation efforts.
Manilow the Grevy zebra arrived on Saturday 19 October after 14-year-old mum, Akuna, carried him for 13 months.
Experts say there are only around 3,000 left in the wild, meaning they are classed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Head Keeper of Ungulates, Lisa Watkins, said: “We are all over the moon with the safe arrival of a Grevy’s zebra foal after what has been a long wait.
"Every birth is important, as these zebras are endangered in the wild, with 90% of the population being found in northern Kenya. Threats include hunting, habitat loss and in recent years severe drought. They are one of Africa’s most endangered large mammals.
“All animals born at the Park this year, will have names beginning with the letter ‘M’, so we have decided to call him Manilow (Manny for short), which keepers thought worked well alongside his big sister’s name, Lola.
"Both mum and foal are thriving and Manilow is getting used to his surroundings, plus Lola, is delighted to have a play mate. We hope that guests will get to see them out on the safari soon, weather dependent.”
Grevy’s zebra are the largest of all equids (horse family) and are the most endangered of the three species of zebra.
The Park’s Grevy’s zebra are part of an European ex-situ programme (EEP), a collaborative effort between European wildlife parks and zoos that aims to conserve endangered species.
As part of this programme, the Park has donated funds to the Grevy’s Zebra Trust, to help with conservation efforts in the wild, such as sending funds for the ‘special drought hay appeal’.
In the coming weeks, the next step for Manilow is to be introduced to his new neighbours, who share his home on the safari, which include white rhinos, antelope, Congo buffalo and giraffe.
The Grevy’s zebras can be seen on the four-mile Safari Drive, which is included in the admission charge.