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.

"Mum K'Tusha is so far doing a wonderful job of caring for her new born. Watching her gently encourage her new baby to its feet in those precious moments shortly after her birth was a real privilege to see. "Okapis are incredibly secretive animals and, for a little while following her birth, Nia Nia had not wanted to venture too far and had instead remained snuggled up in her cosy nest area, with mum returning to her every few hours to allow her to feed. "But now she's gaining in confidence every single day; she's bouncing with energy and eager explore. She's a joy to watch – she's all ears and long, spindly legs!"