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Cute alert! Werribee Open Range Zoo has welcomed two new pint-sized residents: Mamello and Zuka, two zebra foals who were born within just a few days of each other. Zuka, a larger female foal, whose name means to appear suddenly in Swahili, sports the expected black and white stripes. Mamello, a male foal whose name means patience in Sotho and who is on the smaller side has surprised some with his brown and white stripes.
Savannah keeper Sharlina Burns said that brown and white stripes can be common for foals as “they still have their little baby fluff. They’ll generally grow into those black and white stripes once they lose their baby fluff.” It appears the pair have been settling into their new home well while sticking close to their mums for safety and comfort.
Not only are these little fluffy friends bringing a whole lot of cuteness to the zoo, but they are also playing an important role in conservation efforts. Plains zebras are native to Africa, and sadly, they're categorised as near-threatened in the wild. The population of 250,000 is in decline from threats such as hunting, war, droughts caused by climate change and competition with agriculture. Little Mamello and Zuka, along with their fellow zebra companions at Werribee Open Range Zoo, form part of a regional breeding program designed to maintain a genetically diverse herd. The hope is that this can ultimately support the conservation of wild zebra populations.
Those wanting a glimpse of the unique brown and white stripes before they possibly fade soon should book their tickets online now (members do not need to book ahead).