ASHEBORO, N.C. — The North Carolina Zoo is celebrating the birth of three critically endangered Addra gazelle calves, officials announced this week.
Announced on Facebook, the births include two males and one female, all delivered on habitat in the zoo’s Watani Grasslands.
The calves may be difficult for visitors to spot at first. Keepers said newborn Addra gazelles spend much of their early days “tucked” — hidden in tall grasses — a natural behavior that helps protect them from predators in the wild. The zoo says visitors hoping to catch a glimpse should bring binoculars and patience.
An easier way to see one of the calves is through a recent episode of the zoo’s online education series, Zoo EDventures, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at a neonatal exam for the youngest calf.
During the exam, the veterinary team checked the calf’s eyes, ears and mouth; evaluated joint alignment; monitored the heart and lungs; collected blood to confirm normal glucose levels; and completed required microchipping and vaccination. Veterinarians said the calf is healthy and nursing well. She is also the first female Addra gazelle born at the zoo this season.
According to the zoo, Addra gazelles typically stand about 3.5 feet tall, weigh around 135 pounds and live about 11 years. The animals are adapted for life in hot climates, with long, slender legs that help dissipate heat. Males are known to aggressively defend territory during the breeding season.
The Addra gazelle, also known as the dama gazelle, is listed as critically endangered. The North Carolina Zoo participates in international conservation efforts for the species, including managed breeding programs aimed at maintaining a genetically healthy population. Currently, only a few small populations remain in parts of the Sahara and Sahel. Zoo officials said the births are a significant boost for the species.
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