COLCHESTER Zoo says it is overjoyed to announce the birth of an endangered female deer.

The Maldon Road attraction says the sex of the deer is yet to be determined and it will announce a name in due course.

It added the young calf is continuing to grow strong and healthy within the park after being born on April 15.

A zoo spokesman said: “Our animal care team woke up to the joyful news our female Philippine spotted deer, Autumn, had given birth to a healthy calf.

“This is Autumn’s third calf with male Philippine spotted deer, Bongat, after giving birth to a male calf in March 2020 and a female calf in March 2021.”

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“It was hoped that Bongat and Autumn would become a successful breeding pair and they haven’t disappointed, with both proving to be great parents to all their young.

“The young calf is already a great addition to the family and is continuing to grow strong and healthy, and gaining confidence every day.”