Duiker Calf Explores the Outside World at the Maryland Zoo

Posted By : The Animal Facts Editorial Team

Date: August 21, 2020 9:55 pm

LJ the duiker calf explores the paddock with mum, Flower

Photo Credit: The Maryland Zoo

A blue duiker calf born at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, USA in mid-June has experienced the outside world for the first time.

Keepers allowed the calf known as LJ (short for Lucky Junior) to explore the outdoor habitat with mom Flower.

Visitors will be able to see LJ on alternating days in the enclosure which they share with the dik-dik family.

LJ the duiker calf explores the paddock

Photo Credit: The Maryland Zoo

“Flower and LJ have been living behind-the-scenes in the Africa Barn as he has been too little to be in an outdoor habitat,” said Erin Grimm, mammal collection and conservation manager.

“LJ has grown considerably since he was born, now weighing 2.9 pounds (1.3kg). Flower is a very protective mother, watching him closely as they adjust to the new habitat. They are doing well, exploring more and more each day, and we are excited for our visitors to see and learn more about this tiny antelope species,” added Grimm.

LJ the duiker calf explores the paddock with mum, Flower

Photo Credit: The Maryland Zoo

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The blue duiker is an antelope that can be found through southern and eastern Africa. Their name comes from the Afrikaans word for ‘dive’ and refers to the way in which they duck under bushes if threatened.

Populations of the blue duiker are declining due to over-hunting and habitat loss.

LJ the duiker calf explores the paddock with mum, Flower

Photo Credit: The Maryland Zoo

Learn more about the Maryland Zoo on their website – Maryland Zoo