Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is excited to introduce new residents that are sure to captivate visitors - Chines Gorals, a rare and fascinating mountain species making their debut. Chinese Gorals are a species of small mountain ungulate native to Asia that have the characteristics or resemblances of a goat and antelope.
The male goral, age 7, comes from the Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City, Kansas along with his female companion, Madeline, from Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo Safari Park. The pair is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) and were brought to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo with the goal of establishing a future breeding pair.
The Gorals are temporarily housed in the former tiger habitat. The pair will eventually move into a specially designed habitat next to the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat, where they will share space with the Zoo’s White-Naped Crane, creating an engaging exhibit experience.
“The gorals are a significant addition to the Zoo,” said CEO, Jim Wharton. “Not only do they represent a unique species that many guests have never seen before, but they also play an important role in our efforts to support species conservation programs.”
About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating 102 years, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Red Pandas, Andean bears, Maned Wolves, Mexican Gray Wolves, and American Red Wolves. Other highlights include our Spider Monkey Habitat, and a new prairie dog exhibit! As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participant in its Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, the non-profit Zoo is committed to the preservation of endangered animals and wild habitats. Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org.