Tampa Zoo Welcomes New White Rhino Calf and Impalas

St. Johns County residents planning a trip across the state have a few new faces to look for during their next visit to ZooTampa at Lowry Park. The facility recently announced the birth of a southern white rhinoceros calf and two impala calves, marking a significant milestone for their conservation programs.

The white rhino calf, named Malaika, was born on May 28 and weighed approximately 100 pounds at birth. Her name translates to "Angel" in Swahili. Malaika represents the 11th white rhino born at the facility, arriving just months after her half-sister, Kelele, who was born in March. The successful birth is a boost for the species, which continues to face threats from poaching in the wild despite a population rebound over the last several decades.

In addition to the rhino, the zoo celebrated a rare double birth on May 18. Two impala calves, named Kendall and Laura Lanya, were born on the same day. This is the first time the facility has welcomed two impalas simultaneously. Each of the smaller antelope calves weighed about 10 pounds at birth. Impalas are known for their agility and typically gather in large herds in their native African habitats.

These new arrivals are part of a busy season for the zoo, which has recorded 54 births since the start of the year. The facility currently houses approximately 1,300 animals, with a heavy focus on protecting endangered and threatened species. Local families often travel from the St. Augustine area to visit the park, which serves as a major hub for wildlife education and preservation in the region.