Baby boom continues at OKC Zoo with birth of okapi calf

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden's baby boom continues — after the recently born Sumatran tiger twins — with the arrival of a rare, endangered male okapi calf born to first-time mom, Kayin, 6, and father, Bosomi, 4, at 3:42 a.m. Sept. 7 as part of an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) breeding program for this endangered species.

Native to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in central Africa, okapis are a reclusive species often referred to as the “ghosts of the forests.” These unique animals have distinguishing physical features, including a velvet-like brown coat, striped legs and hind quarters and enlarged ears. Plus, the okapi is the only living relative of the giraffe.

Both Kayin and her offspring are in good health and enjoying quality time together in the "nesting" phase for several weeks off public view. The not-yet-named calf, nearly 57 pounds, passed his first wellness check and was standing and nursing an hour after being born both crucial occurrences for a newborn calf.

Okapis have been part of the OKC Zoo’s animal family since 1973. To date, there are about 88 okapis being cared for among 29 Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited members in North America making every successful okapi birth a significant occasion.

The Oklahoma City Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with the last entry no later than 4 p.m. Regular admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children 2 and under are admitted free.

For more information about zoo happenings, call 405-424-3344 or go to okczoo.org.