Updates on Woburn's Critically Endangered Duo

In September and October, Woburn Safari Park welcomed two critically endangered babies to the park, a Somali wild ass foal and an eastern mountain bongo calf. These adorable new additions have settled in wonderfully, winning over keepers and visitors alike with their charm and unique personalities.

The Somali wild ass was named Yana by keepers, in keeping with their alphabetical approach to animals in the Road Safari. While the bongo calf, being the first born at the Park in 10 years, was named Djembe - specially inspired by an African drum - perfect for a bongo, and for a species native to Kenya!  

Somali Wild Ass: Yana 

Born in September, Yana has truly made herself at home in her enclosure. She is described as being quite curious, she loves exploring her surroundings, taking an interest in the nearby Rothschild's giraffe herd. Her first encounter with the giraffes was a memorable one, she was fascinated by the species but also shocked (probably at their staggering height). The giraffes, known for their curiosity, followed Yana around for a bit, showing a mutual curiosity between the species. Though adventurous, Yana is still young and will quickly return to her mother for comfort if she feels unsure. Her curiosity even extends to passing cars, a behaviour she seems to have inherited from her mum. 

Some of the keepers have noticed Yana defintely has a sassy side to her, with a little bit of attitude, the young foal stands out to the keepers when she is out and about in the Road Safari. 

Eastern Mountain Bongo: Djembe 

Described by keepers as a "ball of energy," Djembe has been a whirlwind in the African Forest, delighting everyone with his curiosity and playful antics. He’s already made a big impression on both the bongo herd and the park's visitors.

Though confident, Djembe stays close to his parents, especially when seeking comfort. His curiosity has encouraged the rest of the herd to explore the African Forest a little bit more.

One standout moment came during Djembe's first encounter with the Barbary macaque troop, who he shares an enclosure with. Djembe and a monkey stared at each other for a good few minutes before the young bongo tried to play. The monkey, unsure what to do, opted for a quick retreat up a tree. His excitement is something the keepers love to note, some of the team have even seen him leap over a monkey with such excitement.

The herds 

The Somali wild ass herd tend to keep to themselves. This species is known to be quiet and will often not show much interest in the other animals. With Yana still being young, she is known to venture out but will quickly return to mum and follow her around their habitat. As she has matured she likes to stick close with her herd more than visiting the neighbouring giraffes. 

The other two Somali wild ass females in the herd stay close by, but let mum and Yana have their own space.

Djembe has formed strong connections with his bongo family. He is seen spending time with his dad and mum but also his mother’s twin sister, Odongo. Though Odongo hasn’t had a calf of her own, Djembe seems to have awakened her maternal instincts. She’s frequently seen grooming and comforting him, giving mum a chance to rest.

A Conservation Success

Woburn Safari Park participates in the EEP (EAZA Ex-Situ Programme), contributing to the breeding and care of endangered species in captivity to support vital conservation efforts.

Both the Somali wild ass and the Eastern Mountain bongo are critically endangered species on the IUCN Red List, making the births of Yana and Djembe huge achievements in conservation. Keeper Zack shared “Given that these are two of the most endangered animals we have in the park, it is a huge conservation success to have managed to breed these two. Its particularly exciting as Djembe is the first bongo we have had born here in 10 years. Djembe is a beacon of hope for what will hopefully be a long line of breeding success at Woburn.”

Meet the Miracle Duo

Don’t miss your chance to see them thriving - book your tickets now and join us in celebrating these incredible new arrivals!