Publication Date: 03/09/2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mom and Baby Are Doing Fine!

WHEATON, ILLINOIS ——- On Monday, June 13, 2011, an Angus bull calf was born at Cosley Zoo, located at 1356 N. Gary Avenue in Wheaton. He weighed in at 74.2 lbs. Mom, Ember, is a first time mom but doing great. Like his mom, the calf is all black. Angus cattle are always black, except for a lesser known red strain, and polled, which means hornless.

The baby calf is the 8th baby born this spring. Other new babies include 3 sheep and 4 goats. During births at the zoo, the staff watches to be sure that the baby presents in the correct position, the birth does not take overly long, the baby is not in distress and the mother begins to take care of the baby immediately after birth. A careful eye is kept on the baby to be sure that it begins to nurse within one hour of birth. If for some reason they have difficulty, zoo staff will then step in to gently encourage nursing by the baby. All in all, a good strong baby does great on its own without much interference.

Cosley Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The accreditation process consists of a detailed review and inspection covering all aspects of an institution’s operation including the animal collection; veterinary care; physical facilities; safety; security; finance; staff; governing authority; support organization; involvement in education, conservation, and research; and adherence to AZA policies. Accreditation occurs every five years and is a requirement for zoos and aquariums to be members of AZA. Of approximately 2,800 USDA licensed wildlife exhibitors, only 213 have achieved AZA accreditation.

Cosley Zoo offers educational programs for groups or individuals and offers a wide variety of summer camps for kids.

For more information regarding Cosley Zoo or to become a member of the zoo, visit their website at https://www.cosleyzoo.org or contact the zoo at 630-665-5534.