May 2008
Mini Baby Boom at the Safari Park
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The newborn Père David's Deer |
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Keepers at Longleat Safari Park are enjoying a busy start to Spring with several new arrivals taking their first steps into the world – including the birth of a rare Père David’s Deer.
Père David’s Deer are originally from China and at one time there were only 18 left in the world. Following successful breeding programmes at Longleat and other zoos and parks around the world they have been reintroduced to their Chinese homeland, but are still regarded as under threat.
As Deputy Safari Park Head Warden, Ian Turner advised: "We are absolutely delighted with this little fellow. All births at Longleat are celebrated but to have a successful birth of such an endangered species always adds that something special. He will join our existing herd of 2 males and 4 females”.
The Safari Park has also seen other new arrivals in the form of an Eland Calf, baby wallabies and Rhesus Monkeys. Pets Corner staff have also recently announced the birth of five Asian Short Clawed Otter pups who are
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Is it time to come out yet?! |
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just beginning to pop their heads out into their enclosure.
“The first few weeks after birth can be a bit of an anxious time – not only for our keepers who are obviously concerned about their new charges but also for the youngsters themselves,” explained Ian.
“As they venture out for the first time, it’s up to mum to protect and look after them. The weather this Spring has been somewhat varied so we need to ensure that all the babies are kept safe, warm and dry against the April showers.
“The weather looks as though it might be on the up though and we’re hoping it will encourage some of the youngsters to start exploring their new surroundings. The young wallabies, joeys, have been particularly cheeky and have been quite content to stay in their mum’s pouches with only their heads peeping out. We’re hoping that they’ll be hopping around their enclosure before long”, he added.
Longleat has had a great record with births over the last few years with baby giraffe, camel and lion cubs to name but a few.
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BBC
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