Another Pangopup Born in Prague Zoo

The first picture of the new baby Chinese pangolin, born in Prague Zoo on July 1st. Photo Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo

Miroslav Bobek, Prague Zoo’s director, said, “The second European baby pangolin was born five days later than expected. This date was calculated following our experience with the birth of Šiška. This is in line with the fact that it weighs more, is visibly more developed and more active. It is trying to suckle its mother's milk, however, there is the likelihood that it will have to be fed artificially, as was the case with Šiška.”

Pangolins, which are sometimes called living “pine cones”, are threatened by hunting for their flesh and scales. It is extremely difficult to breed them in captivity, but thanks to our cooperation with Taipei Zoo and their experienced breeders, Prague Zoo has managed to successfully breed them. The female Šiška became the first pangolin to be bred in Europe.

David Vala, the head keeper for pangolins, said, “Shortly after 8 in the evening, the mother, Run Hou Tang, crawled under a massive root in her exhibit, which meant she couldn’t be seen by the cameras. From what we know from last year's birth, we assume that the pangopup was born shortly after midnight.”

It is not yet known whether it is a female or a male. Although the Indonesian Jungle Pavilion will remain open, the exhibit with the mother and baby is temporarily covered to let them rest. Prague Zoo will inform the public about when it will be uncovered.