What's Black, White and 'Grevy' All Over? The Living Desert's New Zebra!

The Living Desert is excited to announce that its zebra, Natalia, recently gave birth to a new Grevy’s Zebra foal. The yet-to-be-named ninety-nine pound male foal was born in the morning on Friday, May 30th, 2014, said Allen Monroe, President & CEO of The Living Desert.

“Grevy zebras are endangered in the wild and each time a foal is born, it’s a welcomed addition to the world,” said Monroe. “We are proud to be an active participant in the Grevy's Zebra Species Survival Plan® and to be able to showcase these amazing animals.”

Working with other zoos across the country, the Species Survival Plan® promotes genetic diversity within the captive population and acts as a safeguard to wild populations. This is the third foal for mom, Natalia, and first for dad, Conrad. The Living Desert is currently home to two Grevy's zebra mares and one stallion, plus the new male foal.

Interestingly, baby zebras are born with legs that are at full height, and each zebra has its own unique pattern of distinctive stripes, just as humans have their own unique pattern of fingerprints. Recent hypothesis conclude that the black and white striping deters biting insects such as the Tsetse Fly, in addition to predator confusion, camouflage at sundown and to identify individual zebras.

The Living Desert is open daily 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., with last admission at 1 p.m.  General admission is $17.25 Adults; $15.75 Seniors & Military; $8.75 Children 3 – 12; Children under 3 are Free.