Cornish zoo welcomes new zebra from Devon

A Cornish zoo has welcomed a new arrival - a male zebra from Devon.

Seven-year-old Parsley, a Chapman's zebra (Equus quagga chapmani) made the journey from Dartmoor Zoo down to Newquay Zoo.

He has joined a six-year-old female, Luna, in the zoo's savannah habitat and zookeepers hoped the couple would become breeding pair.

John Meek, Newquay Zoo's curator of plants and animals, said: "We're hopeful that this beautiful new male zebra will build a strong connection with Luna and eventually contribute to the breeding success of the species."

Mr Meek said Parsley had "already shown great interest in Luna", adding: "We're all feeling very positive about his introduction this weekend."

Mr Meek said Chapman's zebras were known for their "striking striped patterns and strong social bonds".

As well as Luna, Parseley will join three black wildebeest and four nyala in the savannah habitat.

The zoo said the habitat offered an "immersive experience" where visitors could "observe the natural behaviours of the zebras alongside other African grazing animals".

Chapman's zebras are native to southern Africa and are considered "of least concern", the zoo said.

A spokesperson said: "However, like many plains species, they face increasing threats from habitat fragmentation and human encroachment.

"Responsible zoo breeding programmes play a key role in raising awareness and maintaining a genetically healthy population under human care."

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