Greater Kudu Calf

Greater Kudu Calf

By Janel Jankowski, Senior Mammal Keeper

In July, we welcomed a new male geater kudu calf! He is the third born to father Sam and mother Trixie and weighed around 45 pounds at birth. The calf spends time with his mother, Trixie, and older sister, Daffodil. He is particularly fond of his sister and is often seen lying next to her. He's been introduced to his habitat in the African Loop and is doing well, as he is at times quite confident and will already wander away from his family for short distances to explore. When introducing new animals, keepers assess each individual animals' demeanors and formulate a plan based on what will yield the most success. The kudu are given time to explore the habitat on their own to find their comfort zones and hiding spots before introducing the southern white rhinos and ostrich. Kudu typically give birth to one calf after a nine month gestation period.

Photo: John Reed

Greater kudu are the second tallest antelope species originating in Africa and tend to lie in dense vegetation for the first few weeks of their life. Mothers will visit them throughout the day in-between foraging trips. To mimic these behaviors, keepers prepare the kudu area before parturition to provide cozy hiding areas for the calf, including hay bales positioned in several corners of the barn. Be sure to stop by Africa Loop to welcome the little one during your next visit!

Photo: John Reed

Location in the Zoo: Africa Loop

Diet: Leaves, shoots, fruits and flowers

Habitat: Mixed scrub woodland

Range: East, central and south Africa

Conservation Status: IUCN Redlist LC

SSP: Species SurvivalPlan

Photo: John Reed