COAL VALLEY, ILLINOIS (April 27, 2021) — The Niabi Zoo is excited to announce the birth of two Fennec Foxes ( Vulpes zerda). Fennec foxes are native to the Sahara and Sinai deserts of North Africa, and are active hunters of small mammals and reptiles. Fennec foxes are the smallest of all fox species and are known for their unusually large ears that serve to both locate prey underground and to dissipate heat from their bodies in the harsh desert environment. These endearing small members of the fox family are favorites among zoo visitors. The baby foxes or “kits’ as they are called. Are a boy and a girl. They are the eighth and ninth Fennecs born at the zoo and our first girl.
The 2 kits were born on April 12, to our male Carlos and our female Lidi, both of whom are first time parents. Carlos came to Niabi from another zoo. Lidi was part of a group of animals confiscated by the USFWS during an illegal animal importation.
These two new foxes are an important addition to the breeding population in North America and are managed through a corporative population management plan, currently made up of only 139 individuals. The Niabi Zoo partners with more than 40 other zoos in the US and Canada to manage the breeding of this species. “This cooperative breeding program helps not only assure that these beautiful animals will be here for zoo visitors to be inspired by, said zoo director, Lee Jackson. “This is the third litter of Fennec foxes born here at Niabi, and they will be placed in homes at other zoos in coming months. We are excited to be able to make a significant contribution to the program. We look forward to continued success with this species.”
To plan your visit, go to www.niabizoo.com.
A full list of reopening guidelines and closures can be found at NiabiZoo.com.
The Zoo will open on April 18. Hours are from 10AM–5PM, seven days per week, with last entry at 4PM.
About Niabi Zoo
Niabi Zoo, which is operated by the Forest Preserve District of Rock Island County, offers an opportunity to explore more than 40 acres in Coal Valley, Illinois that encompass 200 animal species. This exploration guides guests through the discovery of more than 800 animals from around the world. Niabi Zoo strives to instill a sense of care and understanding for wild animals in each and every visitor as they work in the community. For more information about the Zoo, visit NiabiZoo.com.
Like so many others, staff shortages have required us to rethink our operational strategy in an effort to continue providing the level of service our guests and animals deserve.
Effective opening day, April 18, tickets pre-ordered online by 9AM, the day of your visit will be discounted, while tickets purchased at the zoo admission booth will be a few dollars more. Our new process will allow us to staff more effectively for expected attendance, ensuring the best experience for you and while taking care of our team.
