Rare baby okapi born at British zoo hailed as major boost for endangered species

A rare baby okapi is being hailed as a major boost for the endangered species after being born at a British zoo.

The adorable calf, named Neo, has now made his first public appearance.

He was born to mum Ruby in December but has only just ventured out into his new enclosure.

READ MORE: Rare leopard and towering giraffe caught on doorbell cam just 20 metres from house

Often known as the “forest giraffe”, okapis are mammals native to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

They are famous for their striking striped legs, which resemble those of a zebra.

The animals can grow to almost five feet tall at the shoulder and have an average body length of around eight feet.

They can weigh up to 771lb and live for as long as 30 years, as reported by What’s The Jam.

The species is currently listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

It faces serious threats from poaching, logging, illegal mining and unrest in its natural habitat.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, near Doncaster, joined a breeding programme for the species in 2023 and has already successfully welcomed one calf.

Kyrie Birkett, section head of hoofstock, said: “It was amazing to see Neo take his first steps into the new enclosure.

“He was nervous at first but has settled in quickly and is enjoying his new environment.

“During the first few weeks, the calf hid in a nest and only emerged to feed and interact with Ruby.

“He then nested inside for a few months before stepping out into the sunshine today.

“Neo can be seen outside, weather permitting.

“Otherwise, visitors can spot him in the house through a viewing window.

“We were delighted to welcome a baby okapi.

“We are really lucky to have okapis at YWP, they are such an incredible and beautiful species which need protecting.

“We are so happy with how Ruby has already contributed to the breeding programme.

“Her first calf Mzimu was born in October 2021, and was the first okapi calf successfully bred at the park.

“Mzimu has now joined the breeding programme at another zoo.

“It is so exciting to see Ruby with a new calf.

“She is an excellent mother and is very protective of her new baby.”

READ MORE: Amazing snaps of posing SEAL with beaming smile soaking up the sun on British beach