04/12/2004, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

-PHOTO OPPORTUNITY-

GEMSBOK BABIES JOIN THE HERD AT FOSSIL RIM WILDLIFE CENTER

04/12/2004

What: The first gemsbok calf of the season was born after a typical eight and a half month gestation period. Since that date three others have been sighted. Fossil Rim’s gemsbok roam free within a large pasture and new births are indicated when staff observes that a pregnant cow is absent from the herd. Gemsbok are extremely protective of their young and keep them hidden for 6-8 weeks after birth. Identifying the sex of the calves is often delayed until they join the herd in open territory. As calves are born, they are hidden and organized into a nursery group. Individual mothers then take turns tending the group.

The gemsbok is a large desert oryx with striking facial markings that have inspired African tribal masks. They are native to South Africa, Namibia, and Angola. Gemsbok endure extreme heat by adjusting their body temperature to rise from 95.5 to 113°, and drastically reducing their water intake. Their distinctive horns can grow up to 48 inches long. The herd at Fossil Rim consists of 16 adult gemsbok and the new calves.

PHOTO OP: Gemsbok calves and herd

WHEN: By appointment

WHERE: Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
2155 County Road 2008
Glen Rose, Texas

INTERVIEW: Kelley Snodgrass, Animal Care Director

BACKGROUND: Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a 1,650 acre not-for-profit
501(c)3 facility that specializes in captive breeding
programs for endangered and threatened species of animals. It is one of the few private facilities that meet the strict standards set for accreditation by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association and is an important player in global efforts to save endangered species. The Center cooperates in international species survival plans (SSPs) for 14 endangered or threatened species protected by global species survival plan. Fossil Rim’s research in species propagation is advancing the science of wildlife conservation dramatically and fine-tuning a model of what wildlife preserves will look like in the future. For more information, call 254-897-2960 or visit www.fossilrim.org.