A fluffy new arrival is turning heads at Whipsnade Zoo after the birth of a ‘chatty’ Bactrian camel calf on 18 May.
The yet-to-be-named male was born to first-time mum Orla and dad Oakley, following a 13-month pregnancy. Keepers say the newborn has already shown a vocal side, often ‘talking back’ to his mum with high-pitched squeaks.
Camel keeper Gracie Gee said: “Orla is very protective and attentive, constantly reassuring him with murmurs and noises. It’s very sweet to hear him respond.”
Despite their reputation for being grumpy, Gracie added that camels are actually “nurturing and caring parents,” with Orla already proving to be a natural.
The calf joins his one-year-old half-sister, Sally, and will live alongside a small herd of domestic Bactrian camels. The species plays a vital ambassador role for their critically endangered wild relatives, which are native to remote parts of Mongolia and China.
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