Tufted deer are considered threatened in their native China due to habitat loss and hunting. Successful breeding is a significant addition to the zoo, contributing to the protection and preservation of the species. Potter Park Zoo welcomes the birth of a female tufted deer fawn to parents Lucy and Dezi on April 10, 2023. The fawn needed a week of veterinary treatment due to a failure of passive transfer but is now doing well. Visitors can follow the fawn’s progress on social media as the female tufted deer care for their young independently. Potter Park Zoo is home to nearly 300 animals, including critically endangered black rhinos, endangered red pandas, Massasauga rattlesnakes, and spider monkeys.
Potter Park Zoo in Lansing, Michigan, recently welcomed a new addition to their family – a tufted deer fawn. The baby deer, born on August 23, has been the talk of the town, and the zoo staff couldn’t be more thrilled.
The Arrival
The tufted deer fawn was born to first-time parents, Lily and Chili. The birth was successful, and the fawn was reportedly solid and healthy. The zookeepers had been eagerly awaiting the delivery, and now they were overjoyed to welcome the newest member to their family.
The tufted deer, native to China and Taiwan, gets its name from the tuft of hair on its forehead. This unique feature sets it apart from other deer species and adds to its popularity in the zoo.
Growing Strong
Despite being a newborn, the tufted deer fawn proliferates and strengthens daily. Potter Park Zoo’s veterinary team has been closely monitoring the baby’s growth and health to ensure that it continues to thrive.
The fawn is still nursing from its mother, Lily, but has also started to nibble on hay and other greens. The fawn will eventually transition to an entirely plant-based diet as it grows.
A New Addition to the Tufted Deer Family
The tufted deer fawn significantly adds to the zoo’s thriving tufted deer family. Potter Park Zoo has been breeding tufted deer for more than 20 years as part of a global effort to conserve the species.
The addition of the fawn brings the total number of tufted deer at Potter Park Zoo to 11, including Lily and Chili, the proud parents.
Celebrating the Birth
Potter Park Zoo has been celebrating the arrival of the tufted deer fawn with special events and activities for visitors to enjoy. Zoo staff has been sharing updates about the fawn’s progress on social media, allowing fans to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
The birth of the tufted deer fawn is a significant event for Potter Park Zoo and the conservation of the species. It’s a beautiful reminder of the beauty and diversity in the animal kingdom and the importance of protecting these species for future generations to enjoy.
