Rare animal sighting: First okapi calf in Southeast Asia born at Singapore’s Rainforest Wild Adventure
Okapis look like a strange mix of animals, with zebra-like legs and a body similar to that of giraffes, having long, flexible tongues and bony structures
Singapore’s Rainforest Wild Adventure has announced the birth of Southeast Asia’s first okapi calf. The male calf was born to first-time parents Kisala and Xandor on July 27, according to Mandai Wildlife Group. The newborn weighed around 20kg at his initial weigh-in and had nearly doubled in size to 48kg two months later. Okapis, native to the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Rainforest Wild Adventure recreated the calf’s natural habitat by providing a secluded calving box to ensure the young okapi could remain hidden and undisturbed during his first months. The calf and his mother have recently been able to access their outdoor habitat at Hidden Forest. Visitors will still need to wait for a glimpse of the young okapi, as he is being gradually introduced to his surroundings.
Kisala has been caring for her calf well, as the care team noted the young okapi is gaining about 1kg each day. The public can vote for the calf’s name – Imara, Mayaka, or Kiah – through Mandai’s social media platforms. Additionally, daily Okapi Ranger Talks take place at 10:30 am and 3 pm, offering an opportunity for visitors to learn more about this rare species.
Written by urgent.news from The Independent Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
