Monarto Safari Park

Tiny zebra foal joins the wild family

The little one was recently born in the zebra habitat and has been busy settling in under the careful watch of mum Thembela.

Keepers are making sure to give the youngster and its mum some space so they’re unsure as to whether it’s a boy or a girl just yet.

Monarto Zoo Keeper Haidee Kinter said the 12-day-old foal is settling in well.

“The foal is looking really strong and healthy so that’s excellent news,” Haidee said.

“Thembela is an experienced mum so she’s watching the foal brilliantly and making sure it feels comfortable within the herd and around keepers.

“The little one is sticking pretty close to mum so far, but if visitors jump on the Zu-loop bus they should be able to catch a glimpse of the cutie.”

This exciting arrival marks the first baby in what’s set to be a busy spring period for Monarto Zoo.

“We just welcomed two Scimitar-horned Oryx calves, which are classified as extinct in the wild,” Haidee said.

“We’re also expecting not one but two giraffe calves and a tiny chimp baby in the not-so-distant future so the next few months are going to be a great time to visit.”

Visitors to Monarto Zoo can also watch adorable six-month-old Chimpanzee girl, Hope, who is getting bigger and climbing and exploring more every day.

Lucky members of the public should also be able to spot the newborn Scimitar-horned Oryx calves in the herd with their mums and might even witness a giraffe birth or two!

“Our last giraffe calf was born on exhibit in front of a very lucky school group so you just never know what might happen during your visit!” Haidee said.

More information on Monarto Zoo’s opening hours, animals and keeper talks can be found at www.monartozoo.com.au.

About Zoos SA

Zoos SA is a not-for-profit conservation charity that exists to connect people with nature and save species from extinction.

Zoos SA acknowledges the Country on which we stand always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land and we pay our deepest respect and gratitude to Kaurna (Adelaide Zoo) and Ngarrindjeri (Monarto Safari Park) Elders, past, present and emerging.

We undertake critical conservation work throughout Australia and acknowledge the traditional custodians of these lands.

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