COLCHESTER Zoo has announced the birth of its latest tiny new arrival.
Its Kirk’s dik-dik family has grown after mum Daenerys gave birth to Carol.
The zoo stated Carol is “growing stronger each day”.
A spokesman said: “The tiny new arrival is growing stronger each day and has been sexed by our animal care team who have confirmed Daenerys’ young is female and since named her Carol.
“Kirk’s dik-dik is the smallest member of the antelope family, measuring a maximum of 45cm high at the shoulder with a maximum body length of just 80cm.”
These small antelopes are listed as least concern on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature red list of threatened species. When in danger they will hide rather than run away.
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Their sandy-coloured body and distinctive markings act as great camouflage, helping them to blend into their natural habitat of dry, dense woodland, thickets and scrublands in Africa.
Kirk’s dik-diks form a monogamous pair and since their arrival to the zoo, both Daenerys and dad Demetri have formed a strong bond and welcomed six offspring together.
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