Brookfield Zoo has welcomed another new baby dolphin.
First-time mom Spree gave birth to a male calf at Brookfield Zoo around 6:30 a.m. on October 28, less than two weeks after mom-of-four Tapeko gave birth to her calf.
Shortly following the birth Spree was not providing adequate maternal care so zoo staff made the decision to intervene to provide necessary neonatal care.
“Animal care and veterinary staff will remain in the water providing the calf with continuous, around-the-clock care and nutritional support,” Michael Adkesson, vice president of clinical medicine for the Chicago Zoological Society, said in a news release.
“The calf is strong and vibrant, but hand rearing of dolphins is very uncommon and presents many challenges.”
Although the situation is guarded, zoo staff are “hopeful for a positive outcome.”
The Seven Seas dolphin arena will remain closed until further notice so that staff can provide continuous care for the new calves and their moms.
