KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A baby Hartmann’s mountain zebra was born at Zoo Knoxville, joining her parents and becoming only the second mountain zebra to be born in the city.
In a Facebook post, the zoo announced the baby’s arrival to parents Lydia and Die Toekoms, saying the baby is nursing and healthy, but keepers do not yet know its gender because they are trying to give both mother and baby space and time to bond.
We are celebrating the birth of a Hartmann’s Mountain zebra. The foal, born on March 24 to mother Lydia and father Die...
Posted by Zoo Knoxville on Tuesday, March 29, 2022
Zoo Knoxville, says it is one of only 19 zoos in the country to work with this specific species of zebra.
Hartmann’s mountain zebras have narrow stripes on their neck and torso and wider stripes toward their rear, and a short erect mane, according to Utah’s Hogle Zoo. The zoo’s website explains that Hartmann’s mountain zebras are distinct from other zebras because they have a fold of skin hanging down from their throats.
Hartmann’s mountain zebras are considered “vulnerable” after their population rebounded from “endangered” status in 2008. In its post, Zoo Knoxville said the animals face “a future population reduction of at least 30% within the next 33 years (three generations) if more severe droughts occur.”
On its website, Zoo Knoxville said its zebras are often seen play-fighting and grooming.
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