Thank you to zookeepers Morgan and Lindsay for the photos!
Our Zoo family has grown! After much anticipation, Iggy our Grevy’s zebra gave birth to a healthy male foal on August 4.
Both Mom and the not-so-little one are doing well, and our animal care team is continuing to allow the two ample time and space to bond. Iggy has already been showing off her incredible maternal instincts. She’s patient and protective of her newborn as he figures out his new legs. Baby already has lots of energy and has been tiring himself out running around in the barn. Iggy is always watching over him even during his nap breaks.
Both Mom and baby are doing well.
Every birth is special in our Zoo, but it’s extra impactful when we can welcome an offspring of an endangered species. Grevy’s zebras are endangered in their native range, and we are ecstatic to be able to contribute to a healthy population in human care through the Grevy’s zebra Species Survival Plan. This birth is also extremely meaningful on a personal level for our team after two hard losses last year.
Last spring, Iggy gave birth to another foal that was unfortunately born with severe medical complications and passed away shortly after birth. Just a few months later, our stallion, Bakari, also sadly passed away and was a very hard loss for our Expedition Africa team. However, our team was overjoyed to learn that Bakari’s legacy would carry on with this offspring.
“It really makes us feel like part of Bakari is still with us,” said Expedition Africa zookeeper Morgan. “We can’t wait to see what traits from Bakari this baby will have.”
Our team also hopes to honor Bakari by bestowing a “B” name to the newbie. We will let you know when a fitting name has been selected!
It will be a few weeks before Iggy and her foal make their public debut as we give them appropriate time to bond and for our foal to gain strength. We will be sure to give you sneak peeks behind the scenes and update you when they finally head out on habitat!
“I am so excited for everyone to meet the newest member of our zebra herd,” said Morgan. “He is so special to us and is already enormously loved!”
Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.