Rare Somali Wild Ass Born in Chilean Zoo, Fourth of Critically Endangered Species
Key Highlights :
On June 19th, a rare Somali wild ass foal was born in a Chilean zoo, the fourth specimen of the critically endangered species to be born in the South American country. Named Julieta, the foal was born in a private zoo and has white, striped legs similar to those of a zebra.
The Somali wild ass is critically endangered in its native East Africa, with less than 200 remaining in the wild and a similar number in captivity. Seven of the latter are in South America, all at the Buin Zoo in Santiago, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Hunting and crossbreeding with the common domestic donkey have reduced the populations of this animal to the point of placing it at a critical level of extinction, the last category on the IUCN register before extinction.
In non-traditional medicine, the bones of the Somali wild ass are used for soup that is said to improve rheumatism, tuberculosis, despite the fact that it has not been scientifically proven. Females can only have young approximately every two years, and the ass can live for about 30 years and weigh about 250 kilos (550 lbs).
The birth of Julieta is a sign of hope for the species, and a reminder that conservation efforts must remain vigilant. It is also a reminder that the Somali wild ass is a unique species, one that is worth protecting for its beauty and its place in the natural world. With continued conservation efforts, we can ensure that the Somali wild ass has a future in the wild and in captivity.
