For Immediate Release, April 23, 2008
Contact: Kelly Lessard (952) 431-9217
First calf of the year born; now on exhibit.
Apple Valley, MN – April 23, 2008: Come and see the Minnesota Zoo’s adorable newborn Bactrian camel, “Socrates,” who is making his public debut.
Born on April 15 at 8:30 a.m., weighing 92 pounds, Socrates was not exhibited until recently to ensure that he was gaining weight, nursing, and able to maneuver around his exhibit. He will gain approximately 2-3 pounds per day and will reach adult size (2200-2400 pounds and eight feet tall) in 3–4 years.
The calf was born to his eight-year-old mother, who was also born here, after a gestation period of 13 months. His seven-year-old father has been at the Minnesota Zoo for four years. This is his ninth calf and her third.
The Minnesota Zoo, located in Apple Valley, is open 363 days per year and located just south of the Mall of America. Located on 500 beautiful acres, the Zoo is home to more than 2,300 animals representing nearly 450 species from around the world. For more information, call the Zoo’s information line at 952.431.9500
|