Latest news with #NZG
TimesLIVE
27-06-2025
- General
- TimesLIVE
Pretoria Zoo celebrates World Giraffe Day by welcoming newborn calf Enzo
When the global community came together to celebrate World Giraffe Day on June 21, the National Zoological Gardens (NZG) in Pretoria had its own reason to celebrate with the arrival of a giraffe calf earlier this month. Born on June 8, the young giraffe is the fifth addition to the NZG's giraffe herd. The birth coincided with World Giraffe Day, an initiative by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) to honour the world's tallest land animal on the year's longest day. The calf was born at the zoo to Momo, an 11-year-old matriarch known for her calm and independent nature. According to Carol Thobela, curator of carnivores, pachyderms, and farm yard at NZG, the calf has begun to show a strong personality. 'We named the calf Enzo, meaning 'ruler of the estate'. It's a strong, bold name that suits the energy we have seen. Even though we don't yet know if Enzo is male or female, the name reflects the confidence and spirit of this little one,' said Thobela. NZG director of animal conservation Tracy Rehse highlighted the importance of understanding giraffe subspecies in supporting global conservation science. 'According to new genetic classifications, the NZG giraffes are assumed to belong to the South African giraffe subspecies Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa, though genetic testing has not yet been conducted to confirm this,' said Rehse. 'Understanding subspecies has helped us align our animal management practices with conservation science and ensures we're contributing meaningful data to global conservation efforts' The giraffes at NZG live in an environment tailored to their natural behaviour and health needs. Elevated feeders mimic tree-top browsing, while night shelters and a surrounding wet moat provide safety and comfort, accounting for giraffes' natural reluctance to cross water. The NZG herd includes a mix of distinctive personalities, including: Tiago, who was born in 2020 and hand-reared by staff, is known for his playful and affectionate nature. Azuri, who was born in 2022, is confident and observant and is often found surveying the zoo from his favourite lookout mound. Bonito, the nine-year-old breeding bull, is food-driven and dominant, approaching staff only when browse is on offer. South African National Biodiversity Institute director of marketing, communications and commercialisation Nontsikelelo Mpulo stressed the broader significance of World Giraffe Day. 'World Giraffe Day is not only about admiring Africa's gentle giants. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness and support for the conservation of giraffes, who are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, poaching and deteriorating ecological infrastructure,' said Mpulo. 'While promoting animal welfare and public education, the zoo also plays an important role in national conservation efforts. Though giraffes are locally classified as Least Concern, the species is globally listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with some subspecies facing a higher risk of extinction.'
IOL News
26-06-2025
- General
- IOL News
Introducing Enzo: The adorable baby giraffe born at Pretoria Zoo
Little Enzo the giraffe was born earlier this month at the Pretoria Zoo. Image: Supplied The National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria has a new face - a baby giraffe who was born earlier this month and is called Enzo, which means 'ruler of the estate'. He was born on June 8, ahead of World Giraffe Day, which was celebrated on June 21. This is a day initiated by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) to honour the world's tallest land animal on the longest day of the year. The Pretoria Zoo is home to five giraffes, each with a unique personality and story. Among the giraffes is Momo, an 11-year-old matriarch known for her calm and independent nature. She gave birth to a healthy calf, a significant and joyful addition to the zoo family, and the team decided to name the little calf Enzo. Carol Thobela, curator: Carnivores, Pachyderms and Farmyard at NZG, said: 'It's a strong, bold name that suits the energy we have seen already, even though we don't yet know if Enzo is a male or female; the name reflects the confidence and spirit of this little one.' Other members of the herd include Tiago, born in 2020 and hand-reared by staff. He is said to be friendly and playful, often showing affection and recognising his caregivers even in a crowd. Azuri, born in 2022, is confident and proud, usually found observing his surroundings from a high vantage point on his favourite mound. Bonito, the 9-year-old breeding bull, is dominant and food-driven; he'll approach staff members, but only if there's browse involved. 'According to new genetic classifications, the NZG giraffes are assumed to belong to the South African giraffe subspecies (G. g. giraffa), although genetic testing has not yet been conducted to confirm this,' Tracy Rehse, director of Animal Conservation, said. She added that understanding subspecies helps them align their animal management practices with conservation science and ensures that they are contributing meaningful data to global conservation efforts. To keep the giraffes healthy and happy, NZG follows a detailed enclosure management plan and a diet sheet created by a specialist team. Their food is offered using elevated feeders to mimic tree-top grazing, while night shelters and a surrounding wet moat provide security and comfort, taking into account the giraffe's natural reluctance to cross water. The zoo also benefits from generous browse donations by the City of Tshwane and local communities, ensuring the animals receive a varied and natural diet. Beyond care and education, NZG also contributes to long-term conservation by collecting and storing genetic material from giraffes and other wildlife as part of South Africa's national genetic repository. Meanwhile, Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre manages a free-roaming group of 15 giraffes on the game reserve, offering a view into how these animals behave in their natural habitat. World Giraffe Day is not just about admiring Africa's gentle giants; it is a day dedicated to raising awareness and support for the conservation of giraffes, who are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and deteriorating ecological infrastructure. While promoting animal welfare and public education, the zoo also plays an important role in national conservation efforts. Although giraffes are locally classified as of least concern, the species is globally listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with some subspecies facing a higher risk of extinction.
The Citizen
20-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Calf at Pretoria Zoo born in time for ‘longest' global day of recognition
A baby giraffe was born at Pretoria Zoo earlier in June, becoming the fifth member of the facility's tower. Enzo, the new giraffe calf at Pretoria Zoo. Picture: Supplied / South African National Biodiversity Institute The Pretoria Zoo has welcomed a new addition to its diverse collection of majestic animal species. A giraffe calf became the fifth giraffe at the National Zoological Gardens (NZG) after its birth earlier in June. Given the name Enzo, it was born less than two weeks before the conservation community celebrates World Giraffe Day, which is on 21 June. Longest day of the year To acknowledge the unique physique of the world's tallest land animal, the longest day of the year in the Southern Hemisphere is chosen as the day to honour the giraffe. Enzo joins its mother Momo, breeding bull Bonito and two young giraffes, Tiago and Azuri, as the other long-necked animals at Pretoria Zoo. 'Our team has decided to name the new calf Enzo, meaning 'ruler of the estate', says Carol Thobela, curator of carnivores, pachyderms, and farmyard animals at NZG. 'It's a strong, bold name that suits the energy we have seen already, even though we don't yet know if Enzo is a male or female, the name reflects the confidence and spirit of this little one,' Thobela added. The South African National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) states that the zoo is vital for animal welfare and public education objectives that focus on preserving animals for future generations. 'World Giraffe Day is not just about admiring Africa's gentle giants; it is a day dedicated to raising awareness and support for the conservation of giraffes, who are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, poaching, and deteriorating ecological infrastructure,' the institute stated. Giraffe subspecies Giraffes fall into four distinct subspecies scattered across the African continent. The Northern Giraffe's natural habitat is along the Sahel and Savannah regions stretching across the southern extremities of the Sahara. The Reticulated giraffe is native to areas near Kenya's border with Somalia, while the Masai giraffe inhabits regions along the Tanzania-Kenya border. Based on the Giraffe Conservation Foundation's figures, the Northern giraffes' numbers sit at roughly 7 000, while the Reticulated and Masai subspecies total 20 000 and 43 000, respectively. The Southern giraffe's numbers are approaching 70 000, with the animals scattered across Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa and southern Mozambique. 'According to new genetic classifications, the NZG giraffes are assumed to belong to the Southern giraffe subspecies, though genetic testing has not yet been conducted to confirm this,' says Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Conservation. 'Understanding subspecies helps us align our animal management practices with conservation science and ensures we're contributing meaningful data to global conservation efforts,' Rehse added. To mimic a giraffe's tree-top grazing, food is offered using elevated feeders, and NZG follow a detailed enclosure management plan and a diet sheet created by a specialist team. 'Night shelters and a surrounding wet moat provide security and comfort, taking into account the giraffe's natural reluctance to cross water,' Sanbi explained. NOW READ: Here are the new additions to Pretoria Zoo's aquarium
IOL News
19-05-2025
- General
- IOL News
South Africa's biodiversity: a call to protect endangered species
The endangered Fennec Fox, native to the deserts of North Africa, ranging from Western Sahara, Mauritania to the Sinai Peninsula The world recently paused to reflect on its endangered species, and South Africa confidently stands as a testament to the wonders of nature. As a guardian of some of the Earth's most remarkable flora and fauna, South Africa boasts a biodiversity that is both breathtaking and uniquely its own. From the hidden gems nestled in rocky cliffs to the vibrant canopy of tropical forests, each species plays a critical role in maintaining our vital ecosystems. However, the countdown to extinction is looming for many of these species, and as we commemorated Endangered Species Day, it is crucial to acknowledge the threats impacting our natural heritage. Factors such as habitat destruction due to mining, agricultural expansion. Reflecting on endangered species, South Africa stands as a testament to nature's wonders. The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), alongside national and international conservation organisations and partners, has made significant strides in protecting these vulnerable species. Each plant and animal, whether thriving in a natural habitat, a protected area, or within national botanical and zoological gardens, carries a story – one of survival, exploitation, and ultimately, of hope. One of many success stories comes from the National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria, which last year celebrated the birth of a baby buffed-cheeked gibbon. This remarkable milestone marks a significant contribution to global efforts aimed at preserving this endangered species. The gibbons, Silvester and Lony, were paired through a meticulous introduction process as part of a European conservation breeding programme. Their bond blossomed over time, culminating in the joyous arrival of their offspring, encapsulating what Director of Animal Conservation at NZG, Tracy Rehse, calls 'a lifeline for a species.' Originally native to Cambodia, buffed-cheeked gibbons are classified as endangered, struggling against the dual threats of habitat destruction and poaching. Through initiatives such as the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) studbook programme, SANBI and NZG are helping ensure the longevity of this and many other species, underscoring that 15% of the species at the NZG are currently classified as threatened. Nontsikelelo Mpulo, SANBI's Director of Marketing and Communication, and Commercialisation, expressed hope as she spoke about the ongoing conservation efforts that are made possible through public support. Over 50% of SANBI's national botanical gardens are recognised internationally as conservation gardens, actively managing areas of natural vegetation, alongside their rich biodiversity. According to Mpulo, responsible citizens can play a crucial role in safeguarding South Africa's biodiversity, particularly by monitoring threatened species. 'Start by never buying wild plants or animals from illegal traders. Instead, support ethical nurseries and reputable programs that prioritise sustainability,' she advised. Public engagement remains vital for conservation efforts. Citizens can report suspicious wildlife-related activities, learn about the country's unique biodiversity through visits to botanical and zoological gardens, and contribute to local environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Resources such as the Botanical Society of South Africa, WWF SA, Birdlife SA, Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), and WESSA, offer citizens opportunities to be part of a solution aimed at preserving South Africa's rich biomes. As Mpulo poignantly reminds, 'Everything is connected. When we lose a plant, we may lose a pollinator. When we lose a pollinator, we lose food. When we lose food, we lose people. Conservation is not just about saving species; it's about saving ourselves.'
The Citizen
27-04-2025
- The Citizen
Pretoria zoo welcomes new marine species
The Pretoria National Zoological Garden (NZG) has recently welcomed three Blacktip Reef Sharks and more than 200 colourful marine fish. The zoo is home to the largest inland aquarium on the African continent, and the new additions aim to provide a unique experience and highlight the ongoing plight of marine life. 'The arrival of these animals not only adds to the beauty and diversity of our exhibits but also helps us tell a bigger story about ocean ecosystems and the threats they face,' said Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Collections at NZG. The sharks arrived at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport from Kenya following a 10-hour flight and were promptly transported to the zoo. Each shark travelled in a 1 000-litre plastic tank fitted with secure lids and was connected to life support systems to ensure proper oxygenation during the journey. Upon arrival, they were carefully introduced to their new environment, gradually adjusting to water temperature, salinity, and pH to ensure a smooth and stress-free acclimation process. Accompanying the sharks were 220 marine fish, including striking species such as Powder Blue Tangs, Skunk-striped Anemonefish, Stars and Stripes Pufferfish, and Green Bird Wrasse. Each fish was individually transported in oxygen-rich marine water and carefully acclimated to their new habitat using controlled floating methods before joining the existing aquarium population. The Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) is a fast and agile species native to the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Known for their distinctive, black-tipped fins and remarkable swimming speed, these sharks are effective daytime hunters that often move in small groups, feeding on fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. In the wild, they face growing threats from habitat destruction and overfishing and are currently listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation (IUCN) Red List. While their average lifespan in the wild ranges from 10 to 12 years, they can live for over 20 years in well-maintained aquarium settings, reaching lengths of 1.5 –2m. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
