Critically endangered bongo calf born at Woburn Safari Park
Endangered bongo calf birth marks major milestone at Woburn Safari Park
A critically endangered bongo calf has been born in Bedfordshire’s Woburn Safari Park, marking a significant milestone for global conservation. On 16 October, first-time mother Othaya delivered the male eastern mountain bongo calf, the park’s first birth of this species in over a decade.
With fewer than 100 eastern mountain bongos left in the wild due to extensive hunting, this birth is a crucial development. Tom Robson, Head of Reserves, noted the calf’s healthy arrival after a long labour. The newborn was soon seen standing in a straw bed, prepared for his arrival. Both the mother and her calf are in good health.
Sonny, the calf’s father, joined Woburn’s bongo herd last November and integrated well with the females, demonstrating immediate breeding behaviours. The park hopes the new calf will eventually join another wildlife collection to start his own breeding group, contributing to the species’ survival.
‘Major success’ as endangered bongo calf born at Woburn Safari Park https://t.co/G5IB82Lwy1
— indy100 (@indy100) October 28, 2024
Currently, the mother and calf are kept indoors to allow them to bond and grow stronger. The park staff have been charmed by the calf, who, despite his timid nature, is gaining confidence daily. The baby bongo has been observed exploring the stable, staying close to his mother as he becomes steadier on his hooves.
The eastern mountain bongo’s status as critically endangered is highlighted by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List, with poaching and habitat loss significantly reducing their numbers. Sonny’s arrival last year was part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) endangered species management programme, aimed at bolstering the population of this rare species.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Woburn Safari Park highlights its conservation efforts, including hosting endangered species, participating in EAZA programmes, and educating visitors about species protection and habitat preservation.(read more)
- BBC – The birth of rare bongo antelopes at Woburn Safari Park is celebrated as “fantastic news” for critically endangered species, highlighting conservation efforts and species preservation.
(Note: The article is about the birth of rare bongo antelopes, emphasizing conservation efforts and species preservation.)(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What species of calf was born at Woburn Safari Park?
A critically endangered eastern mountain bongo calf.
When was the bongo calf born at Woburn Safari Park?
The bongo calf was born on 16 October.
How many eastern mountain bongos are left in the wild?
There are fewer than 100 eastern mountain bongos left in the wild.
Why is the birth of the bongo calf significant?
The birth is significant due to the species’ critically endangered status.
What program is Sonny a part of?
Sonny is part of the EAZA endangered species management programme.
