Our bush dog pups are growing up fast and have begun to explore their outside home!

Here at Colchester Zoo we were very excited to announce that we had welcomed our first litter of bush dog pups! The litter was born on 23rd March to first time parents Nina and Nico. Both mum and dad have been fantastic at looking after their young family with all 3 pups now spending time outside and are now eating solid food. They have even had their first dip in the water! 

The trio have also recently been given their vaccinations and been sexed to confirm that we have 2 young female and a male! 

Nina and Nico both arrived at Colchester Zoo July 2017, so we are delighted that they are both happy and feel settled enough to have bred.

The pups will continue to stick close to mum and dad but will continue to grow and get their adult colouring very soon! 

See this short clip of our pups exploring outside below:

The bush dog is a rare and unusual canid, with short legs, a short bushy tail, a rounded muzzle and ears, and webbed feet!

The birth of the pups is extremely important to Colchester Zoo and our breeding program as this species is currently Classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.

Stop by our bridge at the Lost Madagascar Train Station and see if you can catch a glimpse of the youngsters!

*Please be aware that as our pups are not visible at all times.