PREVIEW

Keepers at Woburn Safari Park are celebrating the birth of a critically endangered Eastern mountain bongo calf, born on 5 May to first-time mother Odongo and father Sonny.

The newborn is currently nestled safely in the undergrowth of the Park’s African Forest drive-through reserve, under the watchful eye of his devoted mother.

Odongo’s twin sister, Othaya, welcomed her own male calf, Djembe, in October 2024. Now, just months later, Odongo has followed with her own healthy arrival – a milestone moment for both the Park and global conservation efforts for this rare antelope species.

The youngster faced early challenges due to his small size and required gentle physiotherapy from keepers to strengthen his hips and back legs. However, Odongo’s maternal instincts soon took over, and she has proven to be a nurturing and attentive mother. Her care has allowed the calf to grow stronger by the day, embodying the resilience and family bonds that define this species.

The young calf’s first interaction with the rest of the herd was a joyful burst of energy, as he explored his new surroundings. Keepers noted a touching connection between the calf and his older cousin Djembe, who stayed close by and offered gentle reassurance. The pair have been seen greeting one another with tender nose-to-nose nudges – a sweet sign of the strong social bonds within the herd.

Othaya and Odongo themselves are a remarkable pair. Born at Woburn Safari Park on 3 August 2014, they are one of only two sets of surviving Eastern mountain bongo twins ever recorded in captivity. Their close relationship has continued into adulthood, with Odongo helping care for Djembe before becoming a mother herself. The sisters' journey from rare twin calves to supportive mothers is a testament to the strength of familial ties among bongos.

Tom Robson, Head of Section at Woburn Safari Park, said: “We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our second male bongo calf to the herd at Woburn. After a six-year breeding gap, to have two healthy calves born within months of each other is a major success for the captive breeding programme.

“As a critically endangered species, every birth plays a vital role in securing the future of these beautiful animals. Odongo has embraced motherhood beautifully – it’s just wonderful to see her offering her newborn the strongest possible start in life.”

Eastern mountain bongos are among the rarest antelopes in the world, with fewer than 100 individuals remaining in the wild. The successful births of Djembe and his cousin represent a beacon of hope for the species and reinforce the importance of dedicated conservation work.