Meet our adorable new arrivals

We’re celebrating Mother’s Day with a series of adorable new arrivals.

Among the latest births is a female banteng calf, born to experienced parents Jin and Henky on 3 March. Banteng are one of the rarest cattle species in the world and are classified as critically endangered. Native to Indonesia, these incredible animals are threatened with extinction as a result of habitat loss and the illegal hunting trade. The young calf has delighted guests by playfully dashing around her paddock – while her mother does her best to keep up!

Winnie, a sitatunga antelope, welcomed a calf on 1 March. Keepers were delighted to discover the surprise arrival nestled safely in the habitat early that morning. Initially shy, the calf spent much of its time hiding among the rocks near the pond but is now gaining confidence and venturing out to explore with its mother and the rest of the herd. With populations declining due to habitat loss and overhunting in West and Central Africa, this birth is an important addition to conservation efforts.

Jamie Hannah, Hoofstock Keeper, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome these two new arrivals. Every birth is a significant moment, not just for Marwell, but for the survival of these species as a whole. We’ve had great success breeding both banteng and sitatunga, helping to maintain genetically healthy populations in conservation breeding programmes. Watching these young calves grow, develop, and interact with their herds is incredibly rewarding, and we’re excited for guests to see them thrive.”

Inside the Energy for Life: Tropical House, two silver-eared mesia chicks have also fledged. Originating from South Asia, these small birds have seen a decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation as well as trapping for the pet trade.

Another milestone came in January with the birth of the zoo’s first-ever coppery titi monkey. The tiny infant named Nacho, born to first-time parents Taco and Mr Titi, is thriving under the devoted care of its father, who carries the baby between feedings. Coppery titi monkeys are monogamous, and males take on the primary caregiving role shortly after birth.

As well as the exciting new arrivals, Marwell has plenty in store for visitors this year. Explore the wonders of UK wildlife in our brand-new Native Species Zone, featuring Hampshire’s first white-clawed crayfish conservation breeding centre, a new habitat for endangered sand lizards, a native wildlife pond, and more.

This Easter, embark on an exciting journey Around the World in 80 Species (5–21 April). Grab your Explorer Passport, follow the interactive trail, and meet expert keepers, fascinating animals, and live entertainers along the way.

And launching just in time for Mother’s Day, we’re now offering Afternoon Tea in our stunning Grade I listed Marwell Hall—no zoo ticket required!

Marwell is home to more than 140 rare and endangered species, and by visiting, you are contributing to the vital conservation projects in the UK and around the world.