Zoo in Dublin rejoices over birth of critically-endangered okapi youngster
In a significant milestone for okapi conservation, Dublin Zoo welcomed a new female calf on Good Friday, 18th April, 2025. The birth of this endangered artiodactyl mammal, native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a testament to the zoo's commitment to preserving this rare species.
The newborn okapi calf, now settling into her home under the attentive care of her mother, Lumara, is the third ever born in Ireland. Lumara, a 10-year-old okapi, has previously birthed Dalia and Leki at Dublin Zoo.
Helen Clarke, Team Leader at Dublin Zoo, expressed her excitement about the new addition. "Each okapi birth at Dublin Zoo is a significant step forward for the conservation of this endangered species," she said.
Experts estimate that okapi populations have dropped dramatically over the past two decades, making each new birth a valuable contribution to the species' survival. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, okapis are endangered.
The new okapi calf will begin exploring her outdoor habitat in Dublin Zoo soon. Visitors may have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the growing calf as she ventures out.
Okapis, often referred to as the forest giraffe, Congolese giraffe, and zebra giraffe, have a long, dark tongue that helps them pull leaves from branches, similar to their giraffe counterparts. Infant okapis spend most of their time in their nest during the first few months of life.
The birth of the okapi calf at Dublin Zoo is not just a boost for the captive okapi population but also supports broader conservation and research efforts aimed at protecting this fascinating mammal. The successful breeding in captivity helps support the European Zoo Breeding Programme, which Dublin Zoo coordinates, managing breeding to help maintain and potentially increase okapi numbers.
Such captive breeding programs are crucial for preserving genetic diversity and raising awareness about the species' conservation needs. As the new okapi calf grows, so does the hope for the future of this endangered species.
[1] Dublin Zoo Press Release, 19th April 2025. [2] European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, Okapi Conservation Programme. [3] International Union for Conservation of Nature, Red List of Threatened Species.
The new okapi calf's home at Dublin Zoo, under the affectionate care of her mother Lumara, is an extension of her lifestyle, providing a sanctuary for this endangered species. As Dublin Zoo continues to prioritize home-and-garden efforts for okapis, each new birth played a pivotal role in preserving the species, such as the recent arrival of the latest calf.
