New Kudu Calves Debut at Saint Louis Zoo

Visitors can now see the latest additions to the zoo's herd.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:20pm

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting the silhouettes of young kudu calves moving through their lush, green habitat at the Saint Louis Zoo, conveying a sense of tranquility and wonder.The newest additions to the Saint Louis Zoo's animal family bring a sense of wonder and connection to nature for visitors exploring their habitat.St. Louis Today

The Saint Louis Zoo has announced that two new lesser kudu calves, Emmett and Mabel, are now on display in the zoo's Red Rocks section. Emmett was born in November 2025 to mother Belle, while Mabel was born in February 2026 to first-time mom Judith. A third calf, Mildred, was also born in February but has not yet made her public debut.

Why it matters

The lesser kudu is an iconic symbol of the Saint Louis Zoo, and the birth of these calves represents an important conservation success for the zoo's breeding program. Kudus are members of the Bovidae family, which includes bison and cattle, and their distinctive striped coats help them camouflage in their East African woodland habitats.

The details

Emmett and Mabel can now be seen by visitors in the zoo's Red Rocks section. A third calf, Mildred, was born on February 23 but has not yet made her public debut. The lesser kudu is known for its striking vertical white stripes that help it blend into its natural woodland habitat in East Africa.

  • Emmett was born on November 2, 2025.
  • Mabel was born on February 2, 2026.
  • Mildred was born on February 23, 2026.

The players

Belle

The mother of Emmett, one of the new lesser kudu calves at the Saint Louis Zoo.

Judith

The mother of Mabel, one of the new lesser kudu calves at the Saint Louis Zoo.

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The takeaway

The birth of these new lesser kudu calves at the Saint Louis Zoo is an exciting development for the zoo's conservation efforts and a chance for visitors to see these distinctive and camouflaged members of the Bovidae family up close.