Your Toronto Zoo Welcomes Bactrian Camel Baby!

TORONTO, ON, Friday, May 5, 2023: Your Toronto Zoo is heading into this sunny weekend with some exciting news: we have a newborn baby camel! Suria, an eight-year-old Bactrian camel, gave birth to a female calf yesterday morning. This is Suria’s second calf and although Suria is an attentive mother, the initial stages of nursing have been challenging. Wildlife Care and Wildlife Health staff were prepared for this initial hurdle and have several strategies in place to help ensure positive outcomes for both mom and calf.

“We are thrilled to welcome this little one to your Toronto Zoo” says Dolf DeJong, CEO, Toronto Zoo. “Our mission is to connect people, animals and conservation science to fight extinction. Some guests were fortunate enough to watch Suria gave birth right there in the habitat. The experience of witnessing a life beginning is one they will likely never forget.”

Wildlife Care staff confirmed the pregnancy last spring via ultrasound, and Suria was very laid back throughout her 13-month-long gestation period (it’s been a long time to wait, but we’re finally over the hump!).

The arrival of this baby brings our camel herd to six individuals. Suria and her new calf are currently living with another female camel, Jozy, in the Bactrian Camel Habitat in the Zoo’s Eurasia Wilds. The first 30 days are always critical, and as mom and calf continue to bond they may not always be on display.  Zoo staff will continue to monitor both the calf and mom closely. Once the baby is a bit older, Wildlife Care staff will begin introductions with other members of the group, Tilly and Jamarcus. Dad Zip, a seven-year-old male, will remain separated in another area of the habitat.

Please join us in welcoming the newest member of your Zoo family!