COAL VALLEY, ILLINOIS (January 20, 2023) — The Niabi Zoo is excited to announce the birth of an African Cape porcupine. Cape porcupines are native to the dry woodland areas of South Africa, and are endearing favorites among zoo visitors.
The baby (known as a porcupette) was born on January 7 to our eleven-year-old male Charles and four-year-old female Milele. Both mom and dad have proven to be excellent parents and keep a close watchful eye over their new youngster, who is already starting to take solid food.
“Our Cape porcupines are part of a multi zoo cooperative breeding program”, said Zoo Director Lee Jackson. “This is the first time Cape porcupines have been bred at Niabi, and we are excited to be able to make a significant contribution to the program. We look forward to continued success with this species.” There are 112 institutions involved in the Cape porcupine captive management program with over 500 individual animals involved.
About Niabi Zoo
Niabi Zoo is now closed for the regular admission season but there are plenty of experiences happening at the zoo year-round. Visit NiabiZoo.com for more information. Niabi will be open for the 2020 regular admission season starting April 11, 2020.
Located in Coal Valley, Illinois, Niabi Zoo offers an opportunity to explore more than forty acres that encompass 200 animal species while enjoying the countryside of Rock Island County. This exploration guides guests through the discovery of more than 600 animals from around the world.
You can find all the details here: niabizoo.com/plan-your-visit/hours-pricing/.
The Niabi Zoo is a proud member of the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). Member Institutions are held to the highest standards of animal care and welfare. The ZAA is the fastest-growing professional zoo organization in the United States.
