A second baby nyala has been born at Newquay Zoo, to the delight of staff and visitors alike
The zoo managed to breed the species of antelope for the first time last year, and were thrilled when one was born earlier this year.
Now a second has arrived and is already up and about on its feet.
Stewart Muir, the zoo's Director said: ''I am thrilled at the success we are having with this species at Newquay. This is the second female nyala born this year.
"It is really important that we breed this species in captivity, as they disappeared from much of their range due to habitat destruction through farming and over-grazing by cattle.
"The species has managed to bounce back thanks to effective protections, re-introduction to certain areas and the contribution of zoos like Newquay to organised breeding programmes.
"Both babies can be seen with the rest of their family out on the African Savanna exhibit, one of the most popular exhibits at the Zoo.
"They join the family of black wildebeest, waterbuck and zebra in a mixed species herd, mimicking the migratory herds which crosses the African plains every year in search of grazing."
Nyala are a shy antelope species that dislike open space and are usually found hiding amongst bushes and thicket.
In the wild mother nyala will leave their newborn baby hidden away for the first few weeks, returning only to clean and nurse them.
The zoo managed to breed the species of antelope for the first time last year, and were thrilled when one was born earlier this year.
Now a second has arrived and is already up and about on its feet.
Stewart Muir, the zoo's Director said: ''I am thrilled at the success we are having with this species at Newquay. This is the second female nyala born this year.
"It is really important that we breed this species in captivity, as they disappeared from much of their range due to habitat destruction through farming and over-grazing by cattle.
"The species has managed to bounce back thanks to effective protections, re-introduction to certain areas and the contribution of zoos like Newquay to organised breeding programmes.
"Both babies can be seen with the rest of their family out on the African Savanna exhibit, one of the most popular exhibits at the Zoo.
"They join the family of black wildebeest, waterbuck and zebra in a mixed species herd, mimicking the migratory herds which crosses the African plains every year in search of grazing."
Nyala are a shy antelope species that dislike open space and are usually found hiding amongst bushes and thicket.
In the wild mother nyala will leave their newborn baby hidden away for the first few weeks, returning only to clean and nurse them.
