Critically Endangered Mountain Bongo Calf Born at Woburn Safari Park
Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire is celebrating a conservation milestone with the birth of a second mountain bongo calf—the first time in six years that the park has seen such success in its breeding programme. Keepers are calling the arrival a “major breakthrough” for the survival of this critically endangered species.
The male calf, born on 5 May, follows the October birth of another male, both representing a vital boost to the dwindling population of mountain bongos—an elusive antelope species native to the forests of Kenya. Fewer than 80 individuals are thought to remain in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The newest calf faced early challenges, requiring physiotherapy to strengthen his hips and back legs soon after birth. Fortunately, his condition has improved significantly, and he’s now thriving under the close watch of his dedicated keepers.
Both calves are the offspring of Odongo and Othaya, twin sisters born at Woburn in 2014. Remarkably, they are one of only two known surviving bongo twin pairs ever recorded in captivity. Their deep bond has continued into parenthood, with keepers noting how the sisters remain inseparable and appear to support each other as they raise their young.
Early interactions between the two calves have been heartwarming, with keepers observing gentle nose-to-nose greetings and playful behavior—early signs of a strong sibling-like bond.
Tom Robson, Head of Section at Woburn, expressed the significance of this moment:
“After a six-year breeding gap, to welcome two healthy mountain bongo calves within months of each other is a major success for our breeding efforts. Each birth is a critical step forward in the conservation of these magnificent animals.”
As one of the most endangered antelope species on the planet, every mountain bongo born in captivity offers renewed hope for future reintroduction and species recovery initiatives.