Rare Antelope Born at Brookfield Zoo

A rare Addax antelope gave birth to a healthy 19-pound male calf, June 7 at the Brookfield Zoo.

The zoo said that both - Sara, the mother and the yet-to-be-named calf are doing well. The birth of the calf is good news for the species of antelope that is almost extinct in their native land-the Sahara deserts of Africa. The antelope can be recognized by its characteristic long spiral horns.

Addax is a desert antelope with adaptations that help it survive in arid region. One such adaption is broad hooves that allow it to walk on sand. The antelope has a highly reflective coat that keeps off the heat. 

About 141 addax antelopes born in the U.S. have been bred at the Brookfield Zoo. The zoo has been exhibiting these antelopes since 1935.

Addax was once common in North Africa - from Atlantic to the Nile, on both sides of the Sahara, but is now restricted to few countries such as Chad, Mauritania, and possibly Mali. Poaching and the arrival of motorized vehicles have been considered primary reasons for its dwindling numbers in Africa. Currently international organizations are helping the species survive by providing shelter and breeding opportunities.

There are 200 addax antelopes that live in various zoos across North America with another 300 individuals that live in the wild.

Martha, 13; Mali, 5; and Mona, 15- are addax antelopes that are expecting this summer, the zoo said.