Blank Park Zoo welcomes a birth that could mean everything for a vanishing species
- Replies 0
If you’re looking for a story to lift your spirits, you’ll want to hear about what’s happening in Des Moines.
A new arrival at Blank Park Zoo is drawing attention—not just for its cuteness, but for the rare and meaningful role it may play in saving a species.
The animal is so rare that fewer than 100 are believed to remain in the wild.
A new beginning for a vanishing species
Henri was born to Adeline and Po, a carefully paired couple at Blank Park Zoo brought together through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Addax Species Survival Plan.
Native to the Sahara Desert, the addax—often called the white antelope—is beautifully built for life in an unforgiving landscape, with spiral horns, sandy coats, and remarkable endurance. But poaching, habitat loss, and climate change have driven them to the edge of extinction.
That’s what makes Henri’s birth so meaningful. His arrival marks not only the continued success of the zoo’s breeding program but a small but significant step in keeping the species alive.
Henri’s older sister Bonnie was born just last year—making these siblings a hopeful sign for the future of the addax in North America and, someday, back in the wild.
Shy but curious
Addax calves are known to be shy at first, often staying nestled in grass or bedding while they adjust to their new surroundings. But once Henri gets comfortable, visitors may spot him taking cautious steps around the exhibit or watching the world with big, curious eyes.
His gentle demeanor has already captured the hearts of zookeepers and guests alike.
Built for the desert—but not modern threats
Addaxes are truly one of nature’s wonders. Males can stand up to 45 inches tall at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. They sport long, twisted horns—on both males and females—that can grow up to three feet in length.
Their coats change color with the seasons: white or sandy in the scorching summer, and a grayish-brown during colder months. These adaptations once helped them thrive in the wild, but they haven’t been enough to withstand modern-day threats.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the addax as critically endangered, and their wild numbers continue to dwindle. That makes every successful birth in captivity vital.
Also read: Shocking cause behind Florida panthers' rapid decline revealed!
Why zoo births matter
“Every birth like Henri’s is a step forward for a species on the brink of extinction,” said Anne Shimerdla, President and CEO of Blank Park Zoo. “It underscores our ongoing dedication to species conservation and education.”
Zoos play a crucial role in preserving endangered animals through managed breeding programs, public education, and scientific research. These efforts not only help maintain genetic diversity but also raise awareness about global conservation challenges.
When the public sees animals like Henri, they’re more likely to support initiatives that protect these species both in zoos and in the wild.
Also read: De-extinction: Scientists claim to have brought the dire wolf back
Henri isn’t alone—more new arrivals this summer
The zoo’s nursery has been especially busy lately. Just days before Henri was born, two bamboo sharks—named Snoopy and Pluto—were introduced to the Discovery Center’s reef aquarium.
These graceful longtail carpet sharks are a first for Blank Park Zoo and have already become guest favorites.
Also joining the zoo family is a tiger shovelnose catfish in the Amazon exhibit and a new eastern black rhino named AJ, who arrived from the Cincinnati Zoo.
AJ’s full name, Ajani Joe, means “he who wins the struggle” in Swahili—fitting for a species facing severe threats in its natural habitat.
Also read: Meet the amazing San Diego Zoo cat with a secret that will leave you in awe!
Coming soon: Dino Park Zoo
This summer, the zoo is adding a little prehistoric flair with the grand opening of Dino Park Zoo.
Launching in July, this special exhibit will feature 15 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, hands-on dino-themed activities, and educational displays that transport visitors 65 million years back in time.
It’s a perfect adventure for kids, grandkids, and anyone with a love of the prehistoric!
Also read: Scientists created furry mice: Are woolly mammoths roaming the Earth again?
How you can help
Henri’s arrival is heartwarming—but the story of the addax is also a call to action. Here’s how you can support conservation efforts right now:
As Henri continues to grow and explore his new home, his story reminds us that even the smallest beginnings can make a big impact.
Whether it’s through visiting your local zoo, supporting conservation efforts, or simply learning more about endangered species, each of us can play a part in protecting the planet’s most vulnerable wildlife.
Let’s celebrate Henri’s arrival—and keep working toward a future where animals like him can thrive.
Read next: Shocking Discovery: Aquarium Visitors Learn the Truth About Their Beloved Whale Shark!
Have you ever seen an addax up close? Do you have a favorite zoo memory—or an animal that touched your heart? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments. Let’s celebrate Henri’s arrival and keep the conversation about protecting our planet’s most vulnerable species going strong.
A new arrival at Blank Park Zoo is drawing attention—not just for its cuteness, but for the rare and meaningful role it may play in saving a species.
The animal is so rare that fewer than 100 are believed to remain in the wild.
A new beginning for a vanishing species
Henri was born to Adeline and Po, a carefully paired couple at Blank Park Zoo brought together through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Addax Species Survival Plan.
Native to the Sahara Desert, the addax—often called the white antelope—is beautifully built for life in an unforgiving landscape, with spiral horns, sandy coats, and remarkable endurance. But poaching, habitat loss, and climate change have driven them to the edge of extinction.
A sunny day at Blank Park Zoo, a favorite destination for families and animal lovers alike. Image Source: YouTube / In The Loop.
That’s what makes Henri’s birth so meaningful. His arrival marks not only the continued success of the zoo’s breeding program but a small but significant step in keeping the species alive.
Henri’s older sister Bonnie was born just last year—making these siblings a hopeful sign for the future of the addax in North America and, someday, back in the wild.
Shy but curious
Addax calves are known to be shy at first, often staying nestled in grass or bedding while they adjust to their new surroundings. But once Henri gets comfortable, visitors may spot him taking cautious steps around the exhibit or watching the world with big, curious eyes.
His gentle demeanor has already captured the hearts of zookeepers and guests alike.
Built for the desert—but not modern threats
Addaxes are truly one of nature’s wonders. Males can stand up to 45 inches tall at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. They sport long, twisted horns—on both males and females—that can grow up to three feet in length.
Their coats change color with the seasons: white or sandy in the scorching summer, and a grayish-brown during colder months. These adaptations once helped them thrive in the wild, but they haven’t been enough to withstand modern-day threats.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the addax as critically endangered, and their wild numbers continue to dwindle. That makes every successful birth in captivity vital.
Also read: Shocking cause behind Florida panthers' rapid decline revealed!
Why zoo births matter
“Every birth like Henri’s is a step forward for a species on the brink of extinction,” said Anne Shimerdla, President and CEO of Blank Park Zoo. “It underscores our ongoing dedication to species conservation and education.”
Zoos play a crucial role in preserving endangered animals through managed breeding programs, public education, and scientific research. These efforts not only help maintain genetic diversity but also raise awareness about global conservation challenges.
When the public sees animals like Henri, they’re more likely to support initiatives that protect these species both in zoos and in the wild.
Henri, the young addax calf, explores his surroundings at Blank Park Zoo. Image Source: Facebook / WHO 13 News.
Also read: De-extinction: Scientists claim to have brought the dire wolf back
Henri isn’t alone—more new arrivals this summer
The zoo’s nursery has been especially busy lately. Just days before Henri was born, two bamboo sharks—named Snoopy and Pluto—were introduced to the Discovery Center’s reef aquarium.
These graceful longtail carpet sharks are a first for Blank Park Zoo and have already become guest favorites.
Also joining the zoo family is a tiger shovelnose catfish in the Amazon exhibit and a new eastern black rhino named AJ, who arrived from the Cincinnati Zoo.
AJ’s full name, Ajani Joe, means “he who wins the struggle” in Swahili—fitting for a species facing severe threats in its natural habitat.
Also read: Meet the amazing San Diego Zoo cat with a secret that will leave you in awe!
Coming soon: Dino Park Zoo
This summer, the zoo is adding a little prehistoric flair with the grand opening of Dino Park Zoo.
Launching in July, this special exhibit will feature 15 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, hands-on dino-themed activities, and educational displays that transport visitors 65 million years back in time.
It’s a perfect adventure for kids, grandkids, and anyone with a love of the prehistoric!
Also read: Scientists created furry mice: Are woolly mammoths roaming the Earth again?
How you can help
Henri’s arrival is heartwarming—but the story of the addax is also a call to action. Here’s how you can support conservation efforts right now:
- Visit your local zoo and support accredited conservation programs
- Share endangered species stories to raise awareness
- Reduce waste and choose sustainable products that protect animal habitats
- Donate or “adopt” an animal to help fund care and conservation
As Henri continues to grow and explore his new home, his story reminds us that even the smallest beginnings can make a big impact.
Whether it’s through visiting your local zoo, supporting conservation efforts, or simply learning more about endangered species, each of us can play a part in protecting the planet’s most vulnerable wildlife.
Let’s celebrate Henri’s arrival—and keep working toward a future where animals like him can thrive.
Read next: Shocking Discovery: Aquarium Visitors Learn the Truth About Their Beloved Whale Shark!
Have you ever seen an addax up close? Do you have a favorite zoo memory—or an animal that touched your heart? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments. Let’s celebrate Henri’s arrival and keep the conversation about protecting our planet’s most vulnerable species going strong.
