Mini-Antelopes Cause a Premiere at Vienna Zoo with Baby News

For the first time in the history of the Vienna Zoo Schönbrunn, there are offspring of the Kirk-Dikdiks. This species of animal moved into a historical facility as early as 2014. Just before Christmas, a female young animal was born, the zoo announced on Thursday. Kirk-Dikdiks are among the smallest antelopes in Africa. When fully grown, they reach only the size of a hare.

Zoo Director on Mini-Antelopes

"Those who are so small have many enemies in the wild. But Dikdiks have an excellent sense of sight, hearing, and smell. In addition, they are well camouflaged in the tall grass with their brown fur. In our zoo, the young animal's characteristic snout in the hay is sometimes the only thing visible," said Zoo Director Stephan Hering-Hagenbeck.

At the Schönbrunn Zoo, work was carried out over a longer period to put together suitable breeding animals. "Just because females and males are kept together does not automatically mean that they will also reproduce. The chemistry also has to be right," explained the zoological curator Folko Balfanz. "The young animal is an important contribution to the European conservation breeding program for this species."

Vienna Zoo Hopes for Sponsors for Kirk-Dikdiks

The zoo is still hoping for sponsors for the Kirk-Dikdiks. Animal sponsorships are available from five euros per month, it was announced.

(APA/Red)

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