ZooTampa Reports Seven Births in January Including Rare Eastern Bongo Calves

ZooTampa welcomed seven animals in January 2026. Two Eastern bongo calves arrived. A marabou stork chick hatched. So did a hamerkop chick and two African spoonbill chicks. These births mark important strides for several threatened and endangered species across the globe.

The Eastern bongo herd grew to nine animals with two January births at the Tampa zoo. Bonnie arrived on Jan, 9. Bennett came on Jan. 21, born to mother Blitzen and weighing 51.5 pounds at birth. The male calf joined a group working to save a species listed as critically endangered, with fewer than 100 left in the wild.

A marabou stork hatched on Jan. 29. Parents Will and Diana now have two chicks. Both parents guard the nest and feed their offspring, taking turns throughout the day.

The hamerkop chick represents a first for the zoo. Zookeepers said the chick is growing fast. It has started moving past the nest. The first-time parents keep providing care. This species faces threats in its natural habitat.

Two African spoonbill chicks hatched on Jan. 22. The bird team reported both chicks are doing well, gaining strength each day as they grow under their parents' watchful eyes.

"We can't think of a better way to start the year than with all the new moms and babies," said Chris Massaro, senior VP and chief zoological officer, in a statement, per Fox 13 News. "Our recent baby boom is a momentous occasion for wildlife conservation and a testament to the world-class care provided by the animal care teams at ZooTampa."

The Tampa zoo announced the births in a press release issued on Feb. 23.