Rare Tree Kangaroo Born At Chester Zoo

Take note folks, this next post carries an official cuteness alert warning. And with good reason I might add. It will come as no surprise to many that Chester Zoo are at it again. And what I mean by ‘at it’ is that they are doing what they do so well. Bringing new life into the world. Maybe they should use that last phrase as one of their slogans, or brief marketing descriptions. Imagine a t-shirt with a Chester Zoo logo with the caption – “Bringing New Life Into The World.” Or a mug. Or a poster. In fact anything really. Quite a catchy little slogan, or tag, or whatever you would like to call it. Anyway, I thought of it first – so, copyright Chester Lifestyle and all that. On a more serious note though, let’s take a moment to welcome into the world the rare tree Kangaroo born at Chester Zoo.

Rare Tree Kangaroo Born At Chester Zoo

Here is the young fella, popping his head out for maybe the first time ever, no doubt wondering what’s all the fuss about? Little does he know. Indeed, little does he know that he, along with his mum, Kitawa are pretty rare. (NB: Anyone know his dad’s name by any chance?). Oh, and another NB: Congratulations to mother and father. And of course, huge congratulations to Chester Zoo, yet again, for the excellent efforts they have put as ever. Take a bow one and all.

The, as yet un-named Joey (at the time of writing), was born last July as it happens. So, where has the little fella been until now? I’ll let Chester Zoo Team Manager, David White, explain.

Rare Tree Kangaroo Born At Chester Zoo – History In The Making

“Tree-kangaroos have one of the most complex birthing processes in the animal kingdom. When a joey is first born it’s only the size of a jellybean and is incredibly underdeveloped.

“Moments after the birth, with eyes still tightly closed, the joey knows to instinctively crawl up mum’s belly and into her pouch – following a channel which she has marked out by licking her fur. Once safely in the pouch, the baby receives all of the nutrition it needs while it grows and develops for a further six months – up until it starts to pop its head out.”

So there you have it. He’s been getting himself in good shape before he faces his adoring public.

Chester Zoo, as we know, has plenty of history when it comes to bringing new life into the world. But in this case, the birth has been especially welcomed as Kitawa’s joey is the first Goodfellow’s tree-kangaroo to ever be born at Chester Zoo in its 91 year-long history. As the Zoo have announced, it is a “real celebratory moment for the team and our efforts to protect this highly endangered species“.

What Is A Tree Kangaroo?

Yes, so what is a tree kangaroo? I’m glad you asked. Quite simply, tree kangaroos are marsupials native to the rainforests of Papua New Guinea and nearby islands. They are rare because their habitats are being destroyed by deforestation and human development. Activities that are reducing the amount of suitable forested areas for them to live in. Additionally, very, very sadly, they are hunted for their meat and fur, further decreasing their population.

But let’s not dwell too much on the last bit. This is a time for celebration. And, as already mentioned, Chester Zoo have yet again played a stellar role in this historic event.

Chester Zoo is involved in conservation efforts for tree kangaroos by supporting research and breeding programmes for this rare species. The zoo are also very active in raising awareness about the challenges facing tree kangaroos and their habitats, and they are also advocates for their protection.

In addition to all that, the zoo works with local communities in the tree kangaroos’ native environment to promote sustainable practices that can help conserve the species and its habitats. In doing so, Chester Zoo helps to ensure the survival and well-being of tree kangaroos. And let’s not forget, for so many other threatened species as well.

So, without further ado, a big welcome to the world young Joey. And a huge welcome to Chester Zoo.

Right, next plan of action is that I need to sort out our next visit to Chester Zoo and see our latest addition close up. I’m on the case.

Chester Lifestyle Blog Posts

Thanks for reading my latest blog post – “Rare Tree Kangaroo Born At Chester Zoo” – and thanks for visiting my Chester Lifestyle website. It is much appreciated. Over the years I have posted quite a fair few Chester Zoo articles on this website. You can see all the others HERE.

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