Lets hope once they get there head around owning a zoo they can get back on board. At least its not an all out no, and a just let them settle in.
Australasian Zebra Population
- Thread starter Jambo
- Start date
Lets hope once they get there head around owning a zoo they can get back on board. At least its not an all out no, and a just let them settle in.
I'm so glad this is the case too; hopefully with this new owner there is a still a chance they acknowledge the deal the initial owner had with Steve and show desire to continue contributing to the Grant's program! Would be nice to have another facility on board rather than just DDZ.
Mogo Update:
As has been reported in the news thread, another zebra foal has been born. This time to mother, Katali last week. Sex is unconfirmed but the foal has been named 'Satara'.
Additionally, the previous foal born last month has been named 'Mshindi' and was born to first time mum, Winx.
As has been reported in the news thread, another zebra foal has been born. This time to mother, Katali last week. Sex is unconfirmed but the foal has been named 'Satara'.
Additionally, the previous foal born last month has been named 'Mshindi' and was born to first time mum, Winx.
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
Hi everyone! With the exciting and ambitious expansion plans that Perth Zoo has for its African Savannah exhibit I’ve been thinking about the possibility of new zebras joining the two current half-brothers in the near future. The zoo is looking to form a much larger, cohesive herd that will include not only giraffes, but also ostriches, antelope, and other African species. The aim is to create a thriving and dynamic environment where all of these animals can coexist and interact in a naturalistic setting, closely mimicking their habitats in the wild.
The expansion will bring a great deal of excitement to the zoo, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness these animals as they would behave in their native African savannahs. As part of this, Perth Zoo will likely need to consider enhancing the genetic diversity within its zebra population to ensure the herd is strong, stable, and socially balanced.
Given the zoo commitment to conservation and the careful planning that goes into creating a well-rounded exhibit, it seems highly likely that additional zebras will be introduced to the existing pair of half-brothers. This would not only help form a healthier and more diverse herd, but also encourage natural social interactions among the zebras and other animals within the exhibit.
Now, love to hear your thoughts on this! Do you think it likely that Perth Zoo will bring in new zebras to join the half-brothers? If so, which zebras from other zoos in Oceania or even beyond might be the best candidates to make the move to Perth? Could the zoo look to zoos like Taronga, Monarto, or even further afield, such as Auckland Zoo, for potential new additions?
Please share your opinions and thoughts, as it would be great to get some insight from others who are as passionate about animal conservation and zoo developments as I am. I look forward to hearing what you all think about the future of Perth Zoo African Savannah and the exciting prospects for its zebra herd!
The expansion will bring a great deal of excitement to the zoo, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness these animals as they would behave in their native African savannahs. As part of this, Perth Zoo will likely need to consider enhancing the genetic diversity within its zebra population to ensure the herd is strong, stable, and socially balanced.
Given the zoo commitment to conservation and the careful planning that goes into creating a well-rounded exhibit, it seems highly likely that additional zebras will be introduced to the existing pair of half-brothers. This would not only help form a healthier and more diverse herd, but also encourage natural social interactions among the zebras and other animals within the exhibit.
Now, love to hear your thoughts on this! Do you think it likely that Perth Zoo will bring in new zebras to join the half-brothers? If so, which zebras from other zoos in Oceania or even beyond might be the best candidates to make the move to Perth? Could the zoo look to zoos like Taronga, Monarto, or even further afield, such as Auckland Zoo, for potential new additions?
Please share your opinions and thoughts, as it would be great to get some insight from others who are as passionate about animal conservation and zoo developments as I am. I look forward to hearing what you all think about the future of Perth Zoo African Savannah and the exciting prospects for its zebra herd!
Yes, with the expansion I do believe Perth is likely to acquire more zebras. Regarding the demographics, that would depend on the intention to breed. Geldings are less risky to house around calves than intact stallions, so additional geldings would make the most sense.
Regarding sending zoos, Hamilton has one young gelding and last I heard, there was talk of gelding the other colt. They could be an option as Hamilton will presumably want to bring in a new stallion in the future, which won’t be possible all the time the geldings are there.
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
Thanks for your response! I totally agree that geldings would be the safer option for the expansion, especially if there are any young calves in the future. The stability and harmony of the herd will be so important, and introducing geldings would help maintain that balance without the risks that come with having intact stallions around the younger zebras.
It great to hear that Hamilton Zoo has a young gelding and may be considering gelding the other colt. Those could definitely be solid options for Perth Zoo if they’re looking to expand the herd. It makes sense that Hamilton would be open to sending them to Perth, especially if they plan to bring in a new stallion down the line.
In terms of other potential sources, do you think Perth Zoo might look beyond Hamilton for additional zebras, or could we see more from places like Monarto, Taronga, or even zoos further afield like Auckland Zoo? With the expansion of the African Savannah exhibit, it seems like it could be the perfect time for Perth Zoo to enhance the genetic diversity of their zebra herd and create a more cohesive and thriving environment.
I’m really curious to see how they’ll go about acquiring the new zebras. It could really help bring the whole exhibit to life and offer an even better experience for visitors. Can’t wait to see how this all unfolds!
It great to hear that Hamilton Zoo has a young gelding and may be considering gelding the other colt. Those could definitely be solid options for Perth Zoo if they’re looking to expand the herd. It makes sense that Hamilton would be open to sending them to Perth, especially if they plan to bring in a new stallion down the line.
In terms of other potential sources, do you think Perth Zoo might look beyond Hamilton for additional zebras, or could we see more from places like Monarto, Taronga, or even zoos further afield like Auckland Zoo? With the expansion of the African Savannah exhibit, it seems like it could be the perfect time for Perth Zoo to enhance the genetic diversity of their zebra herd and create a more cohesive and thriving environment.
I’m really curious to see how they’ll go about acquiring the new zebras. It could really help bring the whole exhibit to life and offer an even better experience for visitors. Can’t wait to see how this all unfolds!
Since they already have a pair of males, they could go the route of acquiring additional geldings to continue a bachelor herd.
Realistically, the only options for transfer would be Hamilton (as has been mentioned), Mogo, Monarto and the National Zoo (where the current two males came from). The latter three facilities have breed a good amount of males in recent years.
If we're talking geldings, Monarto is really the only possible facility from thos you've mentioned.
Taronga Zoo only have a single pair, and Dubbo already have cohesive groups that I doubt they'd be willing to break up/send elsewhere.
Auckland also only have a single gelded stallion, alongside a group of females.
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
Thanks for your response! That makes a lot of sense. Since Perth Zoo already has a pair of males, creating a bachelor herd with additional geldings seems like the ideal way to go, especially considering the zoo expansion plans. A bachelor herd would also give the zebras a more natural social structure while keeping things harmonious.
It good to know that Hamilton, Mogo, Monarto, and the National Zoo could be possible sources for transfers. It great that these zoos have bred a good number of males in recent years, as that gives Perth more options for increasing their zebra population while ensuring genetic diversity.
Im really curious to see how Perth Zoo will approach this and which zebras they l’l choose to bring in. It will be interesting to see if they prioritize genetics, social compatibility, or a mix of both. I imagine the expansion will be a great opportunity for the zoo to refresh their herd and create an even better experience for visitors!
What do you think about the likelihood of Perth looking into these other zoos for their new zebras? Could we see some different bloodlines coming into the mix? love to hear your thoughts on how the new zebras will fit into the whole African Savannah exhibit.
It good to know that Hamilton, Mogo, Monarto, and the National Zoo could be possible sources for transfers. It great that these zoos have bred a good number of males in recent years, as that gives Perth more options for increasing their zebra population while ensuring genetic diversity.
Im really curious to see how Perth Zoo will approach this and which zebras they l’l choose to bring in. It will be interesting to see if they prioritize genetics, social compatibility, or a mix of both. I imagine the expansion will be a great opportunity for the zoo to refresh their herd and create an even better experience for visitors!
What do you think about the likelihood of Perth looking into these other zoos for their new zebras? Could we see some different bloodlines coming into the mix? love to hear your thoughts on how the new zebras will fit into the whole African Savannah exhibit.
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
Thanks for clarifying that! I see what you mean about Monarto being the most likely source for geldings, given their more recent breeding and the availability of individuals that could fit into Perth Zoo expansion plans. It makes sense that Taronga and Dubbo might not be able to send any geldings since their groups are already established, and Auckland single gelded stallion is less ideal since there would t be enough males to form a bachelor group.
With Monarto being the top candidate, it will be interesting to see what kind of arrangement Perth Zoo can make with them. The timing could be key in ensuring that any new geldings added to Perth bachelor herd would integrate smoothly and maintain the social dynamics of the group.
It‘s great that we have a clearer picture of where Perth Zoo options might come from. love to hear if you think there are any other ways Perth could increase genetic diversity in their zebra herd beyond looking at geldings. Maybe even bringing in new females down the line could be something to consider for the future?
With Monarto being the top candidate, it will be interesting to see what kind of arrangement Perth Zoo can make with them. The timing could be key in ensuring that any new geldings added to Perth bachelor herd would integrate smoothly and maintain the social dynamics of the group.
It‘s great that we have a clearer picture of where Perth Zoo options might come from. love to hear if you think there are any other ways Perth could increase genetic diversity in their zebra herd beyond looking at geldings. Maybe even bringing in new females down the line could be something to consider for the future?
Since Perth is a reasonable distance from the vast majority of holders, it makes the most sense for them to be a non-breeding facility, with zebras arriving on a one
way ticket (as opposed to transferring offspring out across long distances on a regular basis).
Perth previously held non-breeding Grant’s mares from Auckland Zoo.
I imagine the geldings (assuming that’s what they receive) will be young surplus males of low genetic value that are taking up space at other facilities.
The majority of zoos tend to breed giraffe or zebra (but rarely both when sharing an exhibit). Perth are presumably going to be breeding giraffe, which limits their options for holding zebras.
There isn't too much thought put into genetics these days with our zebra management. Since we haven't had imports for decades now, most of our population is somewhat related and we're beginning to distantly inbreed.
None of the males from Hamilton, Monarto, Mogo or the National Zoo are necessarily valuable genetically.
Compatibility and age however will surely play a part. The National Zoo and Monarto both currently have the largest group of young males to chose from. Both Mogo and Hamilton only really have two males.
It will also come down to how many zebras Perth will wants, ie. if they want more than two, the National Zoo and Monarto are really the only theoretical options.
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
I completely agree with you“ given Perth Zoo location, it makes sense for them to focus on being a non-breeding facility, especially when it comes to zebras. That way, they can avoid the complexities of transferring offspring regularly and instead focus on creating a stable, cohesive bachelor herd. It’sgreat to hear that Perth has successfully held non-breeding Grants mares in the past from Auckland, which could serve as a useful model for how they handle new zebra additions in the future.
If the zebras they acquire are indeed geldings, I think you’re right that they likely come from other facilities with surplus males. It makes sense that Perth would take on young males that aren’t contributing to breeding programs elsewhere, especially since these geldings would help to form a well-balanced and natural social structure within the bachelor herd. The emphasis on genetic diversity might be less of a priority with geldings, but it would still be important to maintain a healthy and stable group.
It’s exciting to think about how this all might come together with the new expansion. Perth Zoo seems to be making a strategic choice in adding zebras that won’t overcomplicate the breeding dynamics at other zoos, while still enriching their African Savannah exhibit. It will be interesting to see how the herd evolves and if Perth decides to bring in any other animals to complement the zebras in the future.
What do you think about the idea of Perth Zoo being a non-breeding facility for zebras in the long run? Do you think they might ever reconsider breeding in the future, or is it more likely that they stick to this model?
If the zebras they acquire are indeed geldings, I think you’re right that they likely come from other facilities with surplus males. It makes sense that Perth would take on young males that aren’t contributing to breeding programs elsewhere, especially since these geldings would help to form a well-balanced and natural social structure within the bachelor herd. The emphasis on genetic diversity might be less of a priority with geldings, but it would still be important to maintain a healthy and stable group.
It’s exciting to think about how this all might come together with the new expansion. Perth Zoo seems to be making a strategic choice in adding zebras that won’t overcomplicate the breeding dynamics at other zoos, while still enriching their African Savannah exhibit. It will be interesting to see how the herd evolves and if Perth decides to bring in any other animals to complement the zebras in the future.
What do you think about the idea of Perth Zoo being a non-breeding facility for zebras in the long run? Do you think they might ever reconsider breeding in the future, or is it more likely that they stick to this model?
I'd hope so! It's always great to have another breeding holder on board although I do acknowledge their value as a non breeding facility and holding surplus males.
I think it’s more likely they’ll stick to the model of breeding giraffes and maintaining a small non-breeding herd of zebra as a side attraction. Zebra are low down on the list in popularity with the public (compared to giraffe). I doubt anyone’s noticed Melbourne’s have gone. Giraffe calves are therefore a much greater draw card than zebra foals and so having non-breeding zebra is neither here nor there.
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
Absolutely! It would definitely be great to have Perth Zoo on board as another breeding holder, especially for genetic diversity in the region. However, I completely see the value in them focusing on being a non-breeding facility as well. Holding surplus males is such an important role, as it helps to alleviate pressure from other zoos that are more focused on breeding programs. Plus, with the expansion of the African Savannah exhibit, having a well-structured bachelor herd could play a big part in creating a dynamic, naturalistic environment for visitors.
That said, it’s always exciting to think about the possibility of Perth being able to contribute to breeding in the future, especially if they ever decide to bring in females or a stallion for the herd. It could create an interesting balance between breeding and non-breeding roles in the region.
What do you think would be the best approach for Perth Zoo if they were to consider breeding zebras in the future? Should they focus on a specific subspecies or continue with the non-breeding strategy?
That said, it’s always exciting to think about the possibility of Perth being able to contribute to breeding in the future, especially if they ever decide to bring in females or a stallion for the herd. It could create an interesting balance between breeding and non-breeding roles in the region.
What do you think would be the best approach for Perth Zoo if they were to consider breeding zebras in the future? Should they focus on a specific subspecies or continue with the non-breeding strategy?
Jaiden
Well-Known Member
@Zoofan15
You make a really good point! I think you’re right in saying that giraffes are likely to remain the main attraction at Perth Zoo, given their popularity with the public. Giraffe calves are certainly a big draw, and they can become a major highlight of the African Savannah exhibit. I agree that zebra, while interesting, might not capture the same level of attention from the public, so maintaining a small, non-breeding herd as a side attraction makes sense in that regard.
With giraffes being the focal point of the exhibit, it allows the zoo to focus their efforts on breeding programs for them, while still providing an enriching environment for the zebras without the pressure of breeding. It’s a great way to keep the exhibit diverse and engaging, without losing sight of what draws the crowds. The zebras can help create that authentic, natural feel to the African Savannah, while still being managed as a smaller, low-maintenance part of the exhibit.
It’s also worth noting that the space and resources that could be devoted to zebras are likely better used for giraffes, especially if breeding them is a priority. It’s smart to keep the zebras as a secondary part of the exhibit, contributing to the overall feel of the environment without overcomplicating things.
Do you think Perth will ever expand its zebra population beyond the current non-breeding herd model, or do you see them keeping it relatively small for the foreseeable future?
You make a really good point! I think you’re right in saying that giraffes are likely to remain the main attraction at Perth Zoo, given their popularity with the public. Giraffe calves are certainly a big draw, and they can become a major highlight of the African Savannah exhibit. I agree that zebra, while interesting, might not capture the same level of attention from the public, so maintaining a small, non-breeding herd as a side attraction makes sense in that regard.
With giraffes being the focal point of the exhibit, it allows the zoo to focus their efforts on breeding programs for them, while still providing an enriching environment for the zebras without the pressure of breeding. It’s a great way to keep the exhibit diverse and engaging, without losing sight of what draws the crowds. The zebras can help create that authentic, natural feel to the African Savannah, while still being managed as a smaller, low-maintenance part of the exhibit.
It’s also worth noting that the space and resources that could be devoted to zebras are likely better used for giraffes, especially if breeding them is a priority. It’s smart to keep the zebras as a secondary part of the exhibit, contributing to the overall feel of the environment without overcomplicating things.
Do you think Perth will ever expand its zebra population beyond the current non-breeding herd model, or do you see them keeping it relatively small for the foreseeable future?
As much as I’d love to see purebred Grant’s become prevalent throughout the region as they were in the 80’s and 90’s, generic zebras are a near cert for nearly ever facility bar DDZ.
Only Darling Downs Zoo are breeding Grant’s atm and ZooDoo are looking likely to transfer out their colts anytime soon.
They could reconsider but tbh we don't have a lot of designated bachelor facilities regionally so every facility is really valuable to the overall program. The males have to be accommodated somehow and whilst most zoos these days are able to accommodate them at their birth facility this isn't always the case and it's always nice to have designated facilities where any surplus males can be offloaded to.
I'd personally love to see there be a focus back on breeding zebras at a sub species level but realistically this wouldn't be supported enough regionally.
In saying that, Perth will likely remain a bachelor facility for the reasons stated!
I can see them maintaining their current males depending on whether they want additional males or not.
Adding another pair of males at the least is an option if they consider acquiring additional males to boost herd numbers - although I personally don't see it being more than two.