With fewer than 100 Addax left in the wild, Monarto Safari Park is celebrating the arrival of a very special new addition – the first Addax calf of the season.

Born into a carefully managed conservation breeding program, the calf represents hope for one of the world’s rarest antelopes. Listed as Critically Endangered, Addax (Addax nasomaculatus) once roamed widely across the Sahara but are now believed to number fewer than 100 in the wild.

Monarto Safari Park is home to a growing herd and plays a key role in international efforts to protect this desert specialist from extinction. With several more females expecting, keepers are hopeful this will be a bumper season for the species.

“This is a huge win for a species on the brink,” said Mark Mills, Assistant Curator of Ungulates at Monarto Safari Park. “Every calf born into the program strengthens the global safety net for Addax and gives us a better chance of preventing their extinction.

“The calf is doing really well and already exploring the habitat with mum – visitors can spot the pair out on display now.”