Another One!
Lehigh Valley Zoo, along with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), is excited to welcome another scimitar-horned oryx calf to the herd. Born to mother “Too Haute”, and father “Bakuli”, this is the 11th oryx calf born at the LV Zoo since 2014. LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo. Father “Bakuli” was sent to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center back in March 2023 as part of the Species Survival Plan, a breeding program run in participating Association of Zoos and Aquarium (AZA) accredited institutions. The Lehigh Valley Zoo has taken part in the Scimitar-Horned Oryx SSP program for ten years. “Bakuli” fathered both our newest calves before his departure to Texas, as gestation for oryx is around eight to nine months.
On October 8th, 2023, the new female oryx calf was born and has been living behind the scenes to adjust to life at the zoo. Our newborn calf weighed in at 17.8 pounds during her first vet checkup. On October 18th, “Too Haute” and the calf were introduced to the herd and everything has been going well. The herd has been curious to meet the new newest addition with our most recent calf, “Scotty Jr.” born on August 4th showing interest in the little one.
In the two months since “Scotty Jr’s” birth, he has grown tremendously. If you look at the picture below, you can see just how big he has grown compared to our new calf. As they continue to grow, the calves will reach weights of 200-400 pounds. The fast growth of antelope species is important to their survival. Antelope are a prey species for many animals such as lions, hyenas, and leopards.
The oryx calf still needs a name. In partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), LV Zoo is hosting a naming poll on Facebook this week (10/18-23) — allowing guests and followers the opportunity to decide the final official name by voting for their favorite finalist.
Written by Emily Granville
Education Specialist
Lehigh Valley Zoo | Schnecksville, PA
