Rare Somali wild ass born in UK safari park

In a significant conservation milestone, a rare male Somali wild ass foal has been born at Knowsley Safari in Merseyside, UK, on August 10. This birth is particularly noteworthy as there are only an estimated 200 mature Somali wild asses remaining in the wild, classifying the species as critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The foal is the first offspring of first-time parents Lahra and Hansi, both of whom are part of a breeding program aimed at bolstering the dwindling population. Lindsay Banks, the ungulates team manager at Knowsley Safari, expressed the importance of this event, stating, “The foal’s birth is a great moment for Knowsley Safari and the wider Somali wild ass species.” She highlighted the threats facing the species, including habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domestic livestock, which have led to their decline since the 1970s. Banks emphasized that breeding programs are essential for the survival of the Somali wild ass, warning that without such initiatives, the species could face extinction. Native to the Ethiopian desert and the mountains of north-east Eritrea, the Somali wild ass is often mistaken for a donkey due to its blue-grey coat and distinctive black stripes on its legs. Banks hopes that visitors to the safari park will develop a greater appreciation for this unique species as they observe the energetic foal interacting with its mother. The Somali wild ass is known for its resilience, capable of thriving on thorny bushes and tough grasses in harsh environments. However, hunting for food and medicinal purposes continues to threaten its survival, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts.