Banham Zoo celebrates conservation milestone with birth of four maned wolf pups

Banham Zoo, in Norfolk, is celebrating a historic milestone as four maned wolf pups were born at the zoo in January 2025.

It's the first maned wolf birth there in 20 years, making Banham one of only a handful of UK zoos to have successfully bred this Near Threatened species as part of a conservation programme.

The pups were born to first-time parents Enya and Thiago, and all four are thriving under their mother’s care.

Now one month old, the zoo says they are beginning to explore their surroundings while being closely monitored by zookeepers to ensure their healthy development.

More about maned wolves

Maned wolves are classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, road collisions and human/wildlife conflict across South America.

Only three UK zoos have successfully bred maned wolves in the past year.

Maned wolf pups typically remain with their mother for up to a year, learning crucial survival skills before gaining independence

"They are at threat of extinction"

Deborah Harris, Animal Manger at Banham Zoo said: “The birth of four maned wolf pups is an incredible milestone for both Banham Zoo and the conservation of this unique species.

"It is the first maned wolf birth here in 20 years, making it a significant achievement – not just for our team but for the wider efforts to safeguard the species.

"Formally listed as near threatened in 2015, in recent years, the populations have decreased rapidly, and it’s believed they are at threat of extinction.

"With only three UK zoos having successfully bred maned wolves in the last year, moments like this truly highlight the vital role zoos play in protecting and preserving endangered wildlife for future generations.

"The pups are already out and visible, and we can't wait for our guests to share in the joy of seeing them. We hope that births like this will inspire the next generation of zookeepers and conservationists.”

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