A female Hartmann’s mountain zebra has been born at the Racine Zoo in Wisconsin, marking the third foal of the species to arrive at the zoo and the first female.
The foal was born in the early hours of Monday, October 12, to mother Promise and father Obi. Both parents were born in 2015 and live at the zoo.
Hartmann’s mountain zebra foal born at Racine Zoo
The birth followed a recommendation from the Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra Species Survival Plan, which coordinates breeding programmes for the vulnerable species.
Hartmann’s mountain zebras are native to arid, mountainous areas of southern Africa. The Racine Zoo said the new arrival would make an important contribution to the managed population and wider conservation efforts.
Keepers monitored Promise closely for several weeks before the birth, using night-vision cameras to track her behaviour, eating and physical condition. Veterinary staff were kept informed of any changes as her year-long pregnancy reached its conclusion.
The zoo said the pregnancy was uneventful and that both mother and foal were healthy. Promise was also reported to be taking “excellent care” of her new arrival.
Dan Powell, the Racine Zoo’s curator of animal care and conservation, said staff were “very happy for Promise, Obi and the new foal” and looked forward to introducing her to visitors.
He added: “This successful birth is a testament to the hard work of the Animal Care Specialists and medical team monitoring Promise’s pregnancy and daily care.”
The foal has not yet been named. Zoo visitors and supporters have been invited to choose between Penny, Dolly and Truth in a public vote on Facebook.
The zoo has not announced an exact date for her public debut, but said it hoped to introduce the healthy baby girl to visitors in the near future.
