Home> Latest

Meet Hangzhou's animal mothers

www.ehangzhou.gov.cn| Updated: May 13, 2024 L M S

动物园1.jpg

Yuanbao closely follows her baby Hangbao. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

May 12 marks Mother's Day. While the term "mama" resonates universally among humans, maternal love extends beyond our species into the natural world. In Hangzhou's Safari Park, there are many devoted "mamas", some who just became mothers this year, some of whom are seasoned veterans.

Yuanbao is a new mom gibbon who recently gave birth to her baby, Hangbao. Since then, she's been inseparable from her little one, even carrying him during meal times. Zookeepers, however, are unsure whether Hangbao is a male or a female. Recently, Yuanbao slightly relaxed her protectiveness over Hangbao. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Hangbao playfully swinging from the roof, escaping his mother's watchful eye.

动物园2.jpg

The baby white rhino gets milk from her mother Nana. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Remember the adorable baby white rhino and her mom, Nana, born just last year? Well, the lively little girl is already a year old. Zookeepers have noted that rhinos are naturally maternal creatures, rarely abandoning their young. Nana, in particular, dotes on her calf, keeping a close eye on her wherever they go. Nana has grown into an excellent mother, knowing precisely what her daughter needs at any given moment.

Spring is a time for new life, but sometimes animal moms inadvertently harm their offspring or lack parenting experience. In such cases, the animal nursery becomes a new home for these little ones. Caretakers provide scheduled feedings and assist with exercise and training, ensuring the young animals receive the care they need.

动物园3.jpg

A caretaker at the park's nursery looks after a baby leopard. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

     
1 2 3 4