Chester Zoo Celebrates Birth of Rare Onager Foal

Chester Zoo has announced the birth of a Persian onager, a species recognized as one of the rarest animals in the world. The young onager, named Jasper, was born to mother Azita after a year-long gestation period. With fewer than 600 wild onagers remaining, this birth is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the species' survival. Mike Jordan, the zoo's animal and plant director, expressed the zoo's delight at Jasper's arrival, noting that both the newborn and Azita are thriving. "He’s full of energy and enjoys playfully kicking up sand as he races around his habitat," Jordan remarked, highlighting the positive bond between mother and offspring. The Persian onager is currently found in only two small, protected areas in Iran, making its conservation critical. The species has been classified as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Jordan emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the rapid decline in onager populations could lead to their extinction in the wild within our lifetime. Chester Zoo's efforts in breeding and conservation are vital in combating the threats faced by the Persian onager. As the zoo continues to raise awareness about this endangered species, the birth of Jasper serves as a hopeful reminder of the importance of wildlife preservation.