Several new babies were born, hatched and morphed at Brookfield Zoo Chicago Zoo since January, including Humboldt penguin chicks, a nyala antelope calf, and a Western gray kangaroo joey. Guests can see most of these new arrivals—many of which are endangered species—while visiting the Zoo this spring. 

Humboldt Penguins 
A pair of Humboldt penguin chicks (Spheniscus humboldti) hatched at the Living Coast on January 28 and January 31. They were born to Cara and Popero, a pairing based on a recommendation from the AZA SSP. The eggs were carefully replaced by artificial eggs in the habitat to not disrupt the parents’ natural behaviors while animal care experts care for the hatchlings, which improves chances of survival. One chick was reared by its parents, while the other was fostered by Patty and Valentino. Guests can keep an eye out for the newest members of the colony, as they’re expected to be on habitat beginning in June. 

Nyala Antelope  
A Nyala antelope (Tragelaphus angasii) calf was born on February 25 to Zola, an experienced mom at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Gestation for this species lasts about seven months, when the calf is then birthed in a hidden place to protect it from predators. The female calf displays the species’ reddish color and white striped coat, which also offers protection as camouflage that mimics the dappled sunlight in its native habitats in Africa’s thickets and woodlands. The female calf is expected to make its debut at Habitat Africa! The Savannah in May. 

Saffron Finches 
The Zoo’s Reptile & Birds aviary will soon see new additions take flight, as two saffron finches (Sicalis flaveola) hatched on January 14. These small yellow birds are native to South America, where they live in flocks during the winter and break off into pairs during breeding season. They are unique songbirds in that they do not migrate, but guests can expect to hear a wide range of singing and vocalizations while visiting these finches. 

Guests can learn more about these species and more than 500 others while visiting Brookfield Zoo Chicago. More information about the Zoo experience is available at brookfieldzoo.org/visit.

Photo Credit: © Brookfield Zoo Chicago