VIDEO OF THE DAY: Brevard Zoo Welcomes ‘Turnip’ and ‘Radish’, Two Newborn Rock Hyrax Pups

By  //  July 6, 2019

Gestation for rock hyraxes lasts 6 to 8 months

ABOVE VIDEO: Brevard Zoo welcomed two rock hyrax pups on Wednesday, June 19 to mother Buffy and father Fangs. The newborns have been named Turnip and Radish by keepers, and their sexes are unknown at this time. They are not yet visible to Zoo guests. (Brevard Zoo video)

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Brevard Zoo welcomed two rock hyrax pups on Wednesday, June 19 to mother Buffy and father Fangs.

The newborns have been named Turnip and Radish by keepers, and their sexes are unknown at this time. They are not yet visible to Zoo guests.

“Last year, Buffy and Fangs gave us babies Gnocchi and Hashbrown,” said Michelle Smurl, the Zoo’s director of animal programs.

“This year, they’ve given us two more furballs, both of whom appear to be in excellent health.”

Gestation for rock hyraxes lasts six to eight months and females can give birth to up to four pups per litter.

Although hyraxes only weigh about eight pounds as adults, their closest living relatives are elephants and manatees.

This species is found in rocky, arid habitats throughout Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Human hunting has led to population decline in some areas.

Although hyraxes only weigh about eight pounds as adults, their closest living relatives are elephants and manatees. (Brevard Zoo image)
This species is found in rocky, arid habitats throughout Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Human hunting has led to population decline in some areas. (Brevard Zoo image)
Gestation for rock hyraxes lasts six to eight months and females can give birth to up to four pups per litter. (Brevard Zoo image)
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