A critically endangered type of antelope, the eastern mountain bongo, has been successfully born in captivity at Woburn Safari Park in the UK. This significant event is crucial for global conservation efforts, as the population of these animals in the wild has dwindled to fewer than 100 individuals. The recent birth marks the first time in over a decade that a bongo calf has been born at the Bedfordshire park, highlighting its importance in the preservation of this rare species.
The calf was born on October 16, 2024, to first-time mother Othaya as part of a breeding program overseen by the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Tom Robson, the head of reserves at Woburn Safari Park, expressed hope that the calf would one day move to another wildlife collection to help establish a new breeding group, further aiding in the species’ recovery. The birth of the calf is seen as a pivotal moment in the park’s conservation initiatives.
Successful Birth of Eastern Mountain Bongo Calf at Woburn Safari Park Boosts Conservation Efforts for Critically Endangered SpeciesThe calf, a healthy male, had a challenging but successful arrival after a long labor. Shortly after birth, he was seen standing on wobbly legs in a cozy straw bed, showcasing his resilience. His father, Sonny, joined the park’s bongo herd in November of the previous year, quickly integrating with the females and demonstrating breeding behaviors, which paved the way for this new calf.
This birth is particularly significant given the dire situation for eastern mountain bongos, which are native to the forested regions of Kenya. With the threat of extinction in the wild looming within the next two decades due to rampant poaching, the arrival of this calf represents a hopeful success story in the fight for conservation. Woburn Safari Park emphasizes the importance of this event as a step toward ensuring the survival of this endangered species.