Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Stripes, it’s Christmas already at Auckland Zoo
Auckland City Council
Media release
18 December 2007
Stripes, it’s Christmas already at Auckland Zoo
Christmas has come early at Auckland Zoo with the birth of a baby zebra, only the second to be born at the zoo in 15 years.
The yet-to-be-named male foal, delivered by 15-year-old mum Itika on 15 December, was walking within 40 minutes of being born, and running within the hour.
Weighing in at around 30kg, the newborn is extremely energetic, but is staying close to mum. He is the third offspring of Itika, whose previous two foals were born in Australia, and would have been the second son to dad Monty, who sadly died last month.
“Both mum and her son are doing very well. This little one’s birth is a wonderful Christmas present and a great addition to the zoo’s zebra herd and the zoo family,” says Auckland Zoo Pridelands team leader, Michael Batty.
“Although it is unfortunate that Monty passed away before his foal was born, we plan to choose a name that recognises his parentage.”
The foal’s birth provides the region with a potentially valuable genetic stock for future breeding. Mum and son will be on display with the other zebra in the next few days, and will be gradually integrated with the other animals within Pridelands.
Ends
Gordon Campbell: On unemployment, Winston Peters’ low boiling point and music criticism
Labour Party: National Gaslights Women Fighting For Equal Pay
The Treasury: New Treasury Paper On The Productivity Slowdown
NZ Government: Government Recommits To Equal Pay
Emily Ireland - Local Democracy Reporter: Deputy Mayor ‘disgusted’ By Response To Georgina Beyer Sculpture
Te Pāti Māori: Māori Unemployment Rate Increases By More Than Four-Times National Rates
Government: Streamlining Building Consent Changes
