Rare Okapi Calf Welcomed at Dublin Zoo—Only the Third Born in Ireland

Dublin Zoo is overjoyed to announce the arrival of a precious new female okapi calf, born to ten-year-old mum Lumaraon the morning of Good Friday (18 April 2025).

This marks only the third okapi ever born in Ireland, and Lumara appears to be a natural mother—all signs show her and the calf thriving in the African Plains habitat.

The little one is spending lots of time in her cosy nest alongside her mum—typical behaviour for infant okapis—although zoo staff say it won’t be long before she ventures out and visitors may begin spotting her in the coming weeks.

 

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Team Leader Helen Clarke emphasised the moment’s importance, saying: “We’re absolutely delighted… Each birth is a major step forward for the conservation of this endangered species.” Okapis are classified as Endangered by the IUCN, facing threats like habitat loss and hunting in their native Democratic Republic of Congo.

Dublin Zoo has been an active player in okapi conservation since 2012, supporting the Okapi Wildlife Reserve and local conservation efforts in Congo. To mark the birth, they’re running a naming competition (entries open until 9 September), with the winning name chosen by keepers and a prize of a family pass to the zoo.