PREVIEW

Two endangered zebra foals born just 17 days apart have taken their first steps on safari together – after one needed round-the-clock care.

Grevy’s zebra Oakley was born at West Midlands Safari Park on July 13 but struggled to stand and feed from mum Akuna.

Keepers stepped in to provide 24-hour support, helping him to his feet, giving medication and closely monitoring his progress.

At around two weeks old, Oakley began standing independently and is now doing well.

Female foal Ozara, born to mum Nafeesa on July 30, had an easier start and was standing within an hour.

The half-siblings, who share dad Angus, have now been introduced and ventured onto the Safari Drive together for the first time this week.

Head keeper Lisa Watkins said: “The team are delighted with the birth of not one but two Grevy’s zebra foals.

“Unfortunately, the male had a difficult start to the world, so the team had to give 24-hour support for the first three weeks of his life.

“Whilst we continue to monitor him closely, he is now doing really well.”

Grevy’s zebras are endangered, with around 3,000 thought to remain in the wild, mainly in Kenya and Ethiopia.

The species faces threats including habitat loss, hunting and severe drought.

Lisa added: “Every birth is so important for conservation.”

The two youngsters can now be seen by visitors alongside their mums on the park’s Safari Drive.