The Lehigh Valley Zoo is thrilled to unveil the introduction of a duo of young, two-year-old female Common Elands, who have just become the newest members of the zoo, relocating from The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio. These newcomers are slated to be companions for Code, the existing male Eland residing in the African domain of the zoo, situated conveniently opposite the habitat of our Masai Giraffe and the Kiannala Feeding Deck.
The Common Eland is the second largest antelope species, preceded only by the Giant Eland. Males of this species can reach towering heights of up to six feet at the shoulder, ranging between 1,200 and 2,000 pounds, a figure parallel to that of our cherished giraffes, Tatu and Joshua. Despite their magnificent size, the females are somewhat smaller yet remain formidable. Notably, these agile creatures boast a remarkable ability to leap significant heights. They maintain a brisk running pace of 20 mph to evade predators in their native African habitats. Occupying a vital position in their ecosystems, Elands facilitate the equilibrium of their natural surroundings.
A strategic initiative orchestrated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, known as @zoos_aquariums on social media platforms, the Species Survival Plan (SSP) operates with a commitment “to oversee a genetically diversified, demographically varied, and ecologically viable population” of selected animal species. The SSP orchestrates partnerships between same-species individuals across accredited zoos based on genetic compatibility. Anticipating positive outcomes from SSP’s guidance, specialists at the LV Zoo are optimistic that introducing the female Elands will foster the birth of new calves in forthcoming times.
Since making his debut at the LV Zoo in the late summer of 2022, Code has captivated visitors with his remarkable presence and robust physique, securing a place as a crowd favorite. The incorporation of the two unnamed females promises a richer viewing experience, offering guests the opportunity to witness the dynamics between the Eland herds and the Scimitar Horned Oryx – another feature of the zoo’s African hoof stock collection – mingling and engaging naturally, mirroring their wild counterparts, and enhancing the authenticity of the visitor experience.
Welcoming visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the LV Zoo invites animal enthusiasts to enjoy an encounter with Code and the newly arrived female Elands, alongside other animal attractions within the zoo. For a convenient experience, tickets are available online through the link in our bio.
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Lehigh Valley Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of two two-year-old female Common Elands, who joined the zoo today from The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio. The pair will join Code, the current male Eland, in the Africa section of the zoo directly across from our Masai Giraffe and the Kiannala Feeding Deck.
Common Eland is the second-largest species of antelope after the Giant Eland, with males growing up to six feet tall at the shoulder and weighing anywhere from 1,200 to 2,000 pounds — roughly the same weight as our resident giraffes, Tatu and Joshua. Females are slightly smaller but still impressive animals. These athletic antelope can jump great heights and have sustained running speeds of 20 mph when escaping predators. Native to Africa, Elands are important members of their ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their habitat.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (@zoos_aquariums ) cooperatively managed Species Survival Plan (SSP) is designed “to manage a genetically diverse, demographically varied, and biologically sound population” of certain animals. The SSP pairs members of the same species at accredited zoos based on their genetics. Based on the recommendation of the SSP, LV Zoo experts hope the arrival of two female Elands will lead to calves in the future.
Code has been a popular addition at LV Zoo since his arrival in August of 2022. His impressive size and stature have made him a favorite among guests. With the addition of these two yet-to-be-named females, visitors will now be able to see the herds of Eland and the Scimitar Horned Oryx — another of the zoo’s African hoof stock — living and interacting together as they would in the wild, providing a more authentic experience.
LV Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests wishing to visit Code and the two new female Elands and the other animals at the zoo can purchase their tickets online in our bio!
