Paignton Zoo Celebrates The Birth Of A Vulnerable Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra

Hartmann’s mountain zebra is classified as vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List. That's why the birth of any Hartmann’s zebra foal is worth celebrating. Zoos and wildlife sanctuaries have been working hard to conserve the population of this species.

Image Credit: Paignton Zoo

Recently, the Paignton Zoo in Devon, England was so excited to announce their newest addition. A Hartmann’s zebra foal zebra was born on the 18th of July. This was great news! The efforts of the zoo's staff and managers have been paid.
The foul's mother, Tauru was also born at the zoo 19 years ago. Meanwhile, Jabali the first time father joined the zoo in December 2019 following a breeding program.
“This new arrival is great news. The Hartmann’s zebra is classed as vulnerable because its population is susceptible to decreasing, so this is a great achievement not only for Paignton Zoo but for the species as a whole,” said Lisa Britton, curator of mammals at the zoo.

Image Credit: Paignton Zoo

Native to West Africa, Hartmann’s mountain zebras are excellent climbers with hard and pointed hooves. They have narrow stripes on the neck and torso and stripes running down to the hooves of the legs. Interestingly, these stripes are unique in each zebra.
Additionally, these zebra are known for their dewlaps – a fold of skin under the throat. They are the only species that have this feature, making them conspicuous among others.

Image Credit: Paignton Zoo

Hartmann’s mountain zebras prefer living in small breeding herds of one adult stallion and 1-5 mares with young. The mares usually remain in a herd for life.
The mare's pregnancy lasts 364 or 391 days. They then breastfeed newborn foals for at least 10 months.
These special mountain zebras are active during the day especially early in the morning and late afternoon to sunset. They have excellent night vision that can be compared to owls.
H/T: The Koala Bear  / Fossil Rim Wildlife Center