Six baby pygmy goats have joined Whipsnade Zoo’s Hullabazoo Farm herd - just in time to greet a new herd of visitors to the conservation zoo this Easter.
The conservation zoo’s members rallied to help name the pint-sized new arrivals – the smallest of which weighs just 6kg and measures a tiny 54cm from nose to tail - taking inspiration from their favourite Disney heroes. Elsa, Nala, Tiana, Jasmine, Baloo and Sebastian have moved to the UK’s largest zoo to take on the important role of wildlife ambassadors, helping to inspire the next generation of conservationists to protect the world’s wildlife.
“All of the goats, who are about to turn one, have very distinct personalities, which helped our members choose their names,” said zookeeper Alex Pinnell. “One is as white as snow and loves an adventure, so our members chose to call her Elsa, while our brown and white goat has been named Baloo. He is fun loving and easy going, just like his name's sake.”
“We’re grateful to our members not only helping name the goats, but also for their continued support for ZSL: through their membership, they’re not only able to be inspired by wildlife through unlimited visits to our zoos, but they also vitally support ZSL's global science and conservation work.”
West African pygmy goats originate from the forests of Cameroon in West Africa, where international conservation charity ZSL is working to protect and support the recovery of species such as the West African elephant, West African wild dogs, the West African lion and Northwest African cheetah. The area’s native species face a range of threats from climate change to unstainable hunting for bushmeat.
The new kids on the farm have all settled in well and have been enjoying exploring their new home in the Dunstable Downs since their arrival - but have had a somewhat aloof welcome from resident pygmy goats Khaleesi, Kendra, Mavis and Maude, says Alex.
“The other goats are warming up to the new arrivals but are definitely acting like older siblings who are a bit put out that the youngsters are getting all the attention. So if you visit the Hullabazoo Farm at Whipsnade Zoo this Easter, make sure to give all the goats a pat on the head and a cheery hello, so they don’t feel left out.”
Visit the new goat herd, along with the 10,000 other animals, at Whipsnade Zoo this Easter, where everyone’s favourite Pip and Posy children’s show come to life over the holidays – free with zoo entry.
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