Three incredibly rare bat-eared fox kits have been born in Britain – the only such births in Europe this year.
The kits arrived to parents Vuko and Vysoke, the UK’s only breeding pair.
They were born at Africa Alive, Suffolk.
Ross Snipp, zoological director at Africa Alive, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome these incredibly important bat-eared fox kits.”
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“Not only are Vuko and Vysoke currently the only breeding pair in the UK, but these are also believed to be the only bat-eared fox kits born anywhere in Europe this year, which makes this a hugely significant conservation success.
“These births are an important contribution to the long-term future of the species within European zoological collections and we’re incredibly proud to be playing such a key role.”
The arrival marks the first bat-eared fox births at the zoo since 2007.
Animal keepers discovered the newborns during morning checks and minimised disturbance around the den to give the family the best possible start.
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The team monitored the kits from a distance for several days before installing a discreet camera trap to observe their first steps outside.
The kits have since begun venturing out, though keepers say they remain cautious and often retreat quickly to the safety of the den.
Both parents have been actively involved in raising the young, as reported by What’s The Jam.
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Vuko, who arrived from Exmoor Zoo in 2024, has taken on night-time parenting, while Vysoke, who arrived from Bratislava Zoo last year, focuses on feeding and nurturing.
Bat-eared foxes are uncommon in European zoos, making the births particularly important for the species’ long-term sustainability.
Africa Alive’s pair is part of an international breeding programme.
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