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