The births are considered important milestones in the Zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts.
TAMPA, Fla. — ZooTampa is welcoming new members to its array of animals after officials said the zoo experienced a “significant baby boom.”
The new editions to the zoo include critically endangered Eastern bongo calves, Bennet and Bonnie, who were both born in January. This brings ZooTampa’s Eastern bongo herd to nine.
Credit: ZooTampa
Eastern bongo calves at ZooTampa
ZooTampa also had its first-ever birth of a female Hamerkop chick, which they say is growing quickly and exploring beyond the nest.
Credit: ZooTampa
Hamerkop born at ZooTampa.
A Marabou stork was also born in late January. The chick is the second for parents Will and Diana, who are sharing responsibilities for protecting the nest and feeding their baby.
Credit: ZooTampa
Marabou stork born at ZooTampa.
There were also two African spoonbill chicks born at the zoo who were born in January and are said to be thriving and getting stronger each day.
Credit: ZooTampa
African spoonbills born at ZooTampa.
The births are considered important milestones in the Zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts.
“We can’t think of a better way to start the year than with all the new moms and babies,” Chris Massaro, Senior VP, Chief Zoological Officer said in a statement. “Our recent baby boom is a momentous occasion for wildlife conservation and a testament to the world-class care provided by the animal care teams at ZooTampa.”