Slender-horned gazelle born this week at Naples Zoo
Another animal was born at the Naples Zoo.
First-time mother Evita, a critically endangered slender-horned gazelle, gave birth to a male calf Monday, March 8, 2021. The calf weighed about 3.5 pounds and stood a little more than 1 foot, the zoo announced in a news release Wednesday.
The zoo’s veterinary team examined the calf, which was found to be healthy and thriving. The neonatal exam also revealed that the calf is a male. He does not have a name yet but he is on exhibit and guests are welcome to see him.
This was the second birth at the zoo in 2021. Five-year-old Eastern bongo mother Amara gave birth Jan. 17 to a female calf, which at the time weighed 46 pounds and stood about 2 feet.
The slender-horned gazelle is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. Naples Zoo participates in this national plan to help create sustainable populations of threatened and endangered species within AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums.
Zoo officials said Wednesday the mother and father of the new baby were specifically matched by the Species Survival Plan based on their ancestry, to create the greatest genetic diversity in the population over the next century.
In addition to the gazelle and bongo, other animals born at the zoo in recent years include lemurs and African lion cubs.
The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Guests may buy tickets at the admission counter. For express entry, guests can still purchase online. 239-262-5409 or napleszoo.org
Dave Osborn is the regional features editor of the Naples Daily News and News-Press. Follow him on Instagram @detroitdave88 and on Twitter @NDN_dosborn.
