Rana, an endangered babirusa piglet, was born at Chester Zoo, where conservationists are hailing her arrival as a crucial lifeline for her species. Babirusas, also known as "pig-deer," are found on only four Indonesian islands and have seen their populations decimated, particularly in recent years due to African swine fever. Previously listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the species is expected to be reclassified as critically endangered.
Rana was born exceptionally small but has been growing and is reported to be doing well. She is the fifth offspring of Matano, a 11-year-old babirusa who was also born at Chester Zoo. Matano's lineage now includes descendants in zoos across Europe.
While babirusas are faring better in managed care, their wild populations are drastically diminishing. "It would be horrendous if they disappeared, because they were amazing, charismatic animals," said Hannah Owens of Chester Zoo. She emphasized that piglets like Rana are vital for the species' survival.
Unlike many pig breeds that produce large litters, babirusas typically have only one or two offspring at a time, contributing to their slow population recovery after significant declines. New mothers are also sensitive to disturbances, leading keepers to monitor Rana and Matano remotely via baby monitors until they were comfortable making their public debut. The zoo's efforts aim to bolster the species' numbers, offering a glimmer of hope against the backdrop of rapid wild population reduction.
