‘Look at those ears!’ Endangered calf with a touching name is born at Ohio zoo
An eastern bongo, a rare African antelope, was born at a zoo in Ohio, marking an achievement for the critically endangered species, officials said.
“It’s a bouncing baby bongo! Look at those ears!” the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden said in a June 23 statement announcing the calf’s birth.
A female named Stevie delivered the male calf on June 20, and both the animals are healthy and “bonding behind the scenes,” officials said.
The newborn was named Beaudan after his father, Beau.
Beau, Stevie’s mate, died early this year, making Beaudan’s birth “bittersweet,” officials said.
Stevie gave birth to a healthy baby boy on Tuesday evening! The keepers have decided to name him Beaudan as a tribute to his dad, Beau. Mom and baby are doing great. They are bonding behind the scenes but may make some short visits outside as early as this weekend. pic.twitter.com/HVg5iocuhr
— Cincinnati Zoo (@CincinnatiZoo) June 23, 2023
Eastern bongos are reclusive, skittish antelopes that, when fully grown, can weigh close to 900 pounds, according to the zoo.
The striped creatures have large, protruding ears that contribute to their keen sense of hearing, according to the San Francisco Zoo.
While native to the lowlands and forests of central Africa, few animals remain there, according to the Cincinnati Zoo.
“There are approximately five fragmented populations left in the wild, consisting of less than 100 individuals, making them critically endangered,” according to the Jacksonville Zoo.
Poaching, habitat destruction and disease all threaten the species’ future, according to the zoo.
Cincinnati Zoo visitors may be able to see newborn Beaudan as early as June 23, officials said.
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