By Adam Dutton via SWNS
Zookeepers are celebrating the birth of a rare endangered baby zebra at a UK safari park as adorable photos show the newborn’s first steps.
Manilow, or Manny for short, was welcomed into the world at West Midlands Safari Park in the early hours of Saturday (Oct. 19).
He was born to 14-year-old Akuna following a pregnancy of 13 months and heartwarming images show mum nuzzling and protecting her cute new arrival.
Conservationists say that the birth is extra-special as Grevy’s zebra numbers in the wild are dwindling.
With a population estimated at around 3,000, they are currently listed as ‘endangered’ by the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature).
Head keeper of ungulates, Lisa Watkins, said “We are all over the moon with the safe arrival of a Grevy’s zebra foal after what has been a long wait.
“Every birth is important, as these zebras are endangered in the wild, with 90 percent of the population being found in northern Kenya.
“Threats include hunting, habitat loss and in recent years severe drought. They are one of Africa’s most endangered large mammals.
“All animals born at the Park this year will have names beginning with the letter ‘m’, so we have decided to call him Manilow (Manny for short), which keepers thought worked well alongside his big sister’s name, Lola.
“Both mum and foal are thriving and Manilow is getting used to his surroundings, plus Lola is delighted to have a playmate.
“We hope that guests will get to see them out on the safari soon, weather dependent.”
Grevy’s zebra are the largest of all equids (horse family) and are the most endangered of the three species of zebra.
The park is part of an EEP (European ex-situ program), a collaborative effort between European wildlife parks and zoos trying to conserve endangered species.
As part of this program, the park has donated funds to the Grevy’s Zebra Trust, to help with conservation efforts in the wild.
In the coming weeks, the next step for Manilow will be to be introduced to his new neighbors, who share his home on the safari.
These include white rhinos, antelope, Congo buffalo and giraffe which can be seen along the Worcestershire attraction’s four-mile safari drive.
