The ABQ BioPark Zoo announced on May 22 that several new African animals have arrived at the zoo, including a yellow-backed duiker, two young warthogs, and a Cape porcupine. The animals are settling into their new habitats after being transferred from other Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited institutions.
The addition of these species brings diversity to the zoo’s Africa area and offers visitors an opportunity to learn about wildlife not previously housed at the facility. Sukie, the four-year-old yellow-backed duiker, is a brand-new species for the BioPark and currently resides in the former cheetah habitat. “Duiker’s are timid animals, so right now we’re focused on building a trusting relationship with her, and she’s responding well while she continues to get used to her new habitat,” said Lisa Moore, a member of Sukie’s animal care team.
Yellow-backed duikers are forest-dwelling antelopes native mainly to central and western Africa. They are named for their distinctive patch of yellow hairs on their rump that puff up when alarmed. The term ‘duiker’ comes from Afrikaans for ‘diver,’ referencing their tendency to dive for cover when startled in the wild. Sukie’s enclosure is not yet open to visitors as she acclimates but will be accessible soon.
Mary, a four-year-old Cape porcupine and another first for the BioPark, is already visible in her exhibit next to the klipspringers. “She’s cautious, but sweet,” Moore said. “She’s a digger, so we’ve got mounds of dirt in there to encourage her.” Cape porcupines are known as Africa’s largest rodent and are most active during evening hours or cloudy days.
Two nine-month-old common warthog sisters named Ripley and Leela have also joined the zoo family. Currently undergoing an acclimation period at the clinic before moving into their public habitat, they show distinct personalities according to Antonia Esparza from the clinic: “They’re settling in really well and love to dig… Ripley is the brave one… Leela is… shyer and follows Ripley.” Warthogs typically enjoy wallowing in mud during hot weather.
The City of Albuquerque has played an important role as a cultural landmark through venues like KiMo Theatre since 1927—a blend of Pueblo Deco architecture—serving community gatherings over decades according to theater’s history page. The city operates under a council structure where members annually elect leadership roles while focusing on goals such as budget approval according to its official website.
