Sacramento Zoo Celebrates First Okapi Birth in Its Nearly 100-Year History: ‘An Important Milestone’

Sacramento Zoo Celebrates the Birth of First Okapi Calf in Nearly 100-Year History

In a historic moment for the Sacramento Zoo, founded in 1927, the birth of the first okapi calf in its nearly 100-year history has been celebrated. The zoo announced this significant milestone via a news release on Facebook on October 13. The male okapi calf was born to female okapi Kivuli on October 9. The zoo stated that both Kivuli and the calf are in good health and will be kept off-exhibit for the next few weeks to allow them time to adjust.

The animal care team and veterinary staff at the Sacramento Zoo will be closely monitoring the mother-calf duo during this crucial period. To ensure their well-being, limited human interaction is deemed essential at this stage, as highlighted in the release. Visitors at the zoo had the unique opportunity to witness part of the birth process, with some catching a glimpse of the event from the side yard of the okapi habitat next to the okapi barn.

Photos taken after the birth showcase the newborn calf standing and bonding with his mother. Okapi, often referred to as “forest giraffes,” bear a resemblance to a blend of a deer and a zebra, as described by National Geographic. These animals, the only living relatives of giraffes, are native to the Ituri Rainforest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species faces endangerment, with an estimated wild population ranging from 10,000 to 15,000.

The significance of this birth extends beyond just the Sacramento Zoo, serving as a vital contribution to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan and global conservation efforts. With fewer than 100 okapi distributed across 30 institutions within AZA, the birth of this calf holds immense value in bolstering the preservation of the species.

Okapi possess unique adaptations such as thick, oily fur to repel moisture and the ability to camouflage in their surroundings with their distinct brown and white stripes. Their diet consists of a range of plant-based foods like fruits, buds, leaves, and twigs, aided by their four stomachs for digesting tough vegetation. Similar to giraffes, okapi boast a long tongue perfect for stripping leaves from trees.

The successful birth of the okapi calf at the Sacramento Zoo underscores the coordinated efforts of various teams including animal care, veterinary staff, facilities management, horticulture, nutrition, development, and leadership. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in achieving this significant milestone.

As efforts continue to monitor and support the well-being of the okapi mother and calf, the birth represents a beacon of hope for the conservation of this endangered species. The Sacramento Zoo’s commitment to wildlife preservation shines through in this remarkable event, showcasing the impact of dedicated conservation initiatives within the zoo community.

In conclusion, the birth of the first okapi calf at the Sacramento Zoo marks a momentous occasion in the zoo’s rich history, symbolizing progress towards the protection and sustainability of endangered species. This extraordinary milestone serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the zoo staff, reinforcing the importance of collaborative conservation efforts in safeguarding the world’s diverse wildlife.