Sydney Zoo Sydney Zoo News 2023

This is so exciting! I noticed only one hyena was out on display when I visited on Tuesday, and was hoping it was that Etana and that Mahali was off display for this very reason. Such a cute little baby, I’ll have to head back again ASAP and hopefully catch a glimpse!
 
Excellent news! A historic first birth of this species for Sydney Zoo and a first for parents Etana and Mahali. It’s nice to see a new founder represented.

If Mogo’s female produces the region’s third litter in December, that’d round off 2023 very nicely.
 
I’m so excited about this!!! I wish I could go see the baby tomorrow. Will have to wait until after Christmas. This is so special. What other zoos in Australia breed hyenas?

Monarto Safari Park are the main breeding hub and welcomed a cub in November; with a further two females potentially pregnant. Mogo Wildlife Park recently announced their female is due December/January. Altina Wildlife Park also have a breeding pair.

Perth Zoo bred the species as recently as the 1990’s, but hold two males now.
 
I visited Sydney Zoo again today, no sign of the hyena cub unfortunately - but given the heat and all the people visiting for school holidays, I’m not too surprised. On my third lap I did get to see both Mahali and Etana on display though, with Mahali often running back up and down the den runway likely checking on her cub. It was great to see them interact through the fence with the lions as well, with both hyena’s running loops towards the fence while one of the lions scratched and sprayed back towards them.
 
I visited Sydney Zoo again today, no sign of the hyena cub unfortunately - but given the heat and all the people visiting for school holidays, I’m not too surprised. On my third lap I did get to see both Mahali and Etana on display though, with Mahali often running back up and down the den runway likely checking on her cub. It was great to see them interact through the fence with the lions as well, with both hyena’s running loops towards the fence while one of the lions scratched and sprayed back towards them.

That’s a shame, but as time goes on the cub will grow in confidence and stamina and will be more visible. It’ll be fascinating to watch the dynamics between the three; even more so as the pack continues to grow with future breeding. It’s an exciting time for Sydney Zoo and the region!
 
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