Marwell Wildlife is celebrating a baby boom at the zoo after welcoming several adorable new arrivals, which offer a glimmer of hope to species on the brink of extinction.

Visitors this autumn can spot the growing herds of nine different species, some of which are critically endangered.

The latest newborns include a Hartmann’s mountain zebra, Kirk’s dik-dik, and a banteng. They join the four Przewalski’s foals, Grevy’s zebra, Rothschild’s giraffe, sitatunga, mountain bongo and addax born during the summer.

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Phil Robbins, Hoofstock team leader, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome these incredible new arrivals to Marwell. Each birth is testament to the dedication and expertise of our team, who work tirelessly - at times around the clock, to support these animals and their welfare. These births are not only joyful milestones but also crucial to the success of our breeding programmes, which play an essential role in safeguarding the future of endangered species.”

The banteng calf is the latest arrival, born on Sunday (October 27) to mother Dewi and father Henky. Banteng are one of the rarest cattle species in the world and would have historically been found in Asia, from southern China to northeast India, mainland Asia, Peninsular Malaysia and nearby islands.

Keepers say the one-week-old Hartmann’s zebra foal is thriving under the watchful eye of mother Marula and guests have been spotting the playful youngster enjoying ‘zoomies’ around the paddock. Hartmann’s mountain zebra are listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Marwell Wildlife, which manages the International Studbook for the species, is currently one of the few UK zoos to successfully breed them.

(Image: Marwell Wildlife) Guests visiting the cute new arrivals this October half term will be able to join in all the fun of ‘Boo at the Zoo’. Additional activities for families this week include broomstick flying with Lowedolf the wizard, seasonal face painting, marshmallow toasting and autumnal-themed snacks at Café Graze. 

It's also the last chance to take advantage of the zoo’s limited special offer 5 for £85 family ticket, which ends on Sunday.