Rare Baby Okapi Takes First Steps Into Outside World At Chester Zoo

For many of us, staying indoors and being unable to explore the outside world has been something forced upon us for the last year. But over winter, there was an exciting new arrival at Chester Zoo, and they have been able to explore the outdoors and explore the beautiful outdoors of Cheshire. A rare baby Okapi was born at the zoo on December 28th, 2020 and has spent her first few weeks of life snuggled up safely with her mother; she has now braved the elements of the outside world.

The Okapi's zebra-like stripes on its back legs allow offspring to easily follow their mothers into the dense forests in the DRC, keeping them well hidden from potential predators. Its elusive nature, paired with an impeccable sense of hearing and unique camouflage, led to the species being nicknamed the 'African unicorn' as the animal went undiscovered until 1901. Sarah Roffe, team manager of the Okapis at Chester Zoo, said: "The birth of an okapi calf is cause for great celebration – they are incredibly rare and incredibly special.