African Safari Wildlife Park Welcomes Critically Endangered Eastern Bongo Calf

Information courtesy of African Safari Wildlife Park

Photo credit courtesy: African Safari Wildlife Park

PORT CLINTON, Ohio, Aug. 1, 2026— African Safari Wildlife Park is excited to announce the arrival of a male Eastern Bongo calf named Conrad, born July 12, 2026.

Conrad was born to mother Aurora, known as Rory, and father Calvin. At 20 days old, he is continuing to grow under the attentive care of his mother and the Park's animal care team.

"Conrad's arrival is incredibly special for everyone at African Safari Wildlife Park," said Kelsey Keller, Chief Operating Officer. "Eastern Bongos are a critically endangered species, and welcoming a healthy calf gives us an important opportunity to help guests learn more about these remarkable animals and the need to protect wildlife and their natural habitats."

Native to dense forests in Africa, Bongos are known for their striking auburn or chestnut-colored coats, which feature approximately 10 to 15 vertical white stripes. Both males and females have large ears and distinct spiraled, lyre-shaped horns. Their coloring and markings help them blend into the shadows and vegetation of their forest habitats, while their large ears allow them to detect approaching predators.

As herbivorous browsers, Bongos feed on leaves, grasses, roots, flowers, fruits, and other vegetation. They use their prehensile tongues to grasp food and are also known to consume burned wood from lightning-struck trees as a source of salt and minerals.

Eastern Bongo populations continue to decline in the wild and are considered critically endangered. Habitat destruction and hunting remain two of the greatest threats to their survival. Conservation efforts include population monitoring, habitat protection, and reintroduction programs designed to strengthen remaining wild populations. Conrad's arrival supports African Safari Wildlife Park's mission to provide an interactive animal experience that promotes the appreciation and conservation of all living things.

About African Safari Wildlife Park

African Safari Wildlife Park is the Midwest's original Drive-Thru Safari, located in Port Clinton, Ohio. The Park offers interactive animal experiences that promote the appreciation and conservation of all living things, including the Drive-Thru Safari, Walk-Thru Safari, animal encounters, educational programs, and seasonal events.

Learn more here: https://africansafariwildlifepark.com/