Potter Park Zoo Welcomes Birth Of Rare Eastern Bongo, A Critically Endangered Species

Along with the rapid development of society, more and more wild animals are put in danger. And it is vital that all measures to protect animals be taken. Thankfully, many policies have recently been published to protect nature's animals. Especially, breeding programs are widely carried out with the purpose of helping rare animals increase the number of individuals.
Last month, Potter Park Zoo in Lansing, Michigan, had a chance to greet a female eastern bongo, a highly endangered animal. She is the fifth eastern bongo born in the zoo’s history since 2014.

Source: Potter Park Zoo

The eastern bongo is a species of antelope native to sub-Saharan Africa. They are the third-largest antelope in the world, distinguished by their white-yellow stripes and long, spiraling horns.
The species is classified as critically endangered and threatened in the wild by the IUCN; hence, the birth is deemed to be wonderful news for this highly vulnerable species. They’re currently facing logging and poaching in their habitat, and Eastern Bongos are now less common in the wild than in zoos. Only over 300 individuals are found in US zoos with AZA accreditation.

Source: Potter Park Zoo

Source: Potter Park Zoo

The new baby bongo does not have a name yet, but the zoo confirms it is healthy. Its mom, Uzuri, is also doing well. The newborn calf is currently bonding with her mother indoors, and animal care staff say she is gaining weight.
"Bongo are critically endangered, so each birth is special," Potter Park Zoo’s Director of Animal Health Dr. Ronan Eustace said in a press release. "The calf appears healthy, and the mother has raised calves successfully in the past."

Source: Potter Park Zoo

Source: Potter Park Zoo

Given that Bella, one of the zoo's oldest eastern bongos, has passed away, the new birth is probably a bittersweet moment for the organization. In a Facebook post, it is stated that Bella was 14 and a half years old when she passed away, which is much above the average lifespan of a bongo kept in human care.
Though this little girl is not ready to appear right now, zoo visitors will be able to see her in the near future.

Source: Potter Park Zoo

If you like our articles, don't forget to like and share them. Also, check out our Homepage for more fascinating articles about animals.