Throughout 2023, the world has witnessed the birth of rare species that have given hope to endangered animals and delighted wildlife lovers around the world. From cats to reptiles, check out these eight new inhabitants of the planet.
Discover 8 Rare Species Born in 2023 – Photo: Reproduction/ND8 rare species born in 2023:
1 – Giraffe without spots
At the Brights Zoo, Tennessee, USA, a baby giraffe surprised everyone by being born without the traditional spots characteristic of this species.
Experts believe it may be the only solid-colored reticulated giraffe in the world. Despite his unique appearance, blood tests show that his health is in perfect condition. At 6 feet tall, the cub thrives under the care of its mother.
2 – Sumatran rhinoceros
A baby Sumatran rhino, considered the smallest and hairiest of the four existing rhino species, has been born in Indonesia’s Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary.
There are only 80 individuals of this species in the world – Photo: Handout/Ministry of Environment and Forestry Indonesia/AFP/NDThe birth of an individual weighing approximately 27 kg is especially significant since, according to a 2019 estimate, there are only 80 individuals in the world.
3 – Ara Lyra:
At the Sao Paulo Zoo, biologists managed to save the cracked egg of the critically endangered Lear’s macaw. After repairs and artificial incubation, a chick weighing 20.5 grams was born at the end of February.
The species faces threats from the wildlife trade and habitat destruction as part of the National Caatinga Bird Conservation Action Plan.
4 – Leucistic alligator:
Gatorland, an alligator theme park in Florida, witnessed the birth of an extremely rare white alligator in December.
The species was discovered just 36 years ago – Photo: @gatorland_orlando/Reproduction/NDThese leucistic crocodiles, discovered just 36 years ago, have bright blue eyes and normal-colored spots on their skin, distinguishing them from albinos. These alligators are sensitive to sunlight and represent a unique genetic variation.
Leucistic alligator differs from albinos – Video: @gatorland_orlando/Reproduction/ND
5 – Albino Puma:
Juigalpa’s Tomas Belta Zoo in Nicaragua announced the birth of an albino puma in August.
Being one of only four animals of the species with an all-white coat, the puppy requires special care due to albinism and is more sensitive to sunlight.
6 – Clouded Leopard:
In July, the zoo’s female clouded leopard, Ruaki, gave birth to a male cub. Found in Nepal and Bangladesh, these leopards face threats due to habitat loss and poaching. The wild population is estimated to be around 10,000 individuals.
7 – Eastern bongo:
An eastern bongo calf was born at the Potter Park Zoo in Lansing in March. Considered one of the most majestic and endangered antelope species, the eastern bongo has only about 100 survivors in the wild and 300 in accredited zoos.
8 – Cotton Tamarin Twins:
In July, a pair of twin cotton-top tamarins were born at Walt Disney World in Florida, doubling the population of Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.
These tamarins are endangered due to the illegal pet trade, deforestation and habitat loss.
Source: Ndmais