Small antelopes take up residence at Devon Zoo

A zoo in Devon has welcomed three small antelopes.

Dartmoor Zoo reported that three male Kirk’s dikdiks, also known as Madoqua kirkii, arrived from Colchester Zoo on 23 July.

According to the zoo, the three animals, Gregg, Munchkin and Pie, appeared to be in “good spirits” and “settle into their new environment.”

The new animals have moved to the African aviary and join their current resident, Macaroni, a four-year-old dik-dik.

According to CEO David Gibson, the four formed a “fun group” together.

He said: “We are delighted to welcome a group of three male Kirk’s dik-diks, small antelopes. They are approximately 40 to 60cm (16-24in) long.

Mr Gibson explained that the small antelopes originate from East Africa, specifically Kenya, and that the zoo’s newest additions have been bred in the UK.

He said the three animals were between eight and 18 months old.

He described the animals as “very shy and nervous dwarf antelopes”.

Mr Gibson also said that in the wild the animals are normally unable to survive on their own.

When the zoo was given the opportunity to rehome three males from Colchester Zoo, they were ‘very happy to say yes’, as they were looking for a ‘companion animal’ for Macaroni.

‘Adjustment period’

“The four of them make quite a funny group. They all seem to be getting on really well at the moment,” Mr Gibson said.

“We are pleased to have the group, a non-breeding group of four male dik-diks. That meets the requirements for that species and we do not plan to acquire more.”

The zoo asks visitors to be considerate of the animals’ sensitive nature and “remain calm and attentive around the enclosure so they have a pleasant adjustment period.”

Senior Goalkeeper Ashley Matthews said they would continue to monitor their behaviour and wellbeing during the adjustment period.

‘Nice band’

She added: “However, we are thrilled to be witnessing the formation of a beautiful new bond and can’t wait to see it grow further.”

The zoo explained that the name ‘dik-dik’ comes from the antelope’s call. When they feel threatened, they run in a zigzag formation and make whistling sounds with their noses, which warn other people in the area.

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