Dama Gazelle Born at the Smithsonian's National Zoo
Special delivery at the Smithsonian's National Zoo today! A Dama gazelle was born to mom Adara and dad Raul this afternoon around 2:30 p.m. on exhibit. A few extremely lucky Zoo visitors witnessed the young gazelle's birth and first steps. Adara and her baby will be off-exhibit for the next few weeks, which will give them time to bond.
This birth is very significant for the Dama gazelle population. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red List of Threatened Species lists the Dama gazelle as critically endangered. It is estimated that fewer than 500 remain in the wild and are under constant threat due to hunting and poaching.
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Photo Credit: Jen Zoon and Devin Murphy, Smithsonian's National Zoo
