ONE OF the smallest species of antelope has arrived at All Things Wild in Honeybourne, near Evesham, as part of an international breeding effort to protect the species for future generations.
Twiglet is a female Dik-Dik and measures just 35cm at the shoulder and has arrived from the Wild Discovery Zoo near Preston with a male companion due to arrive at the zoo later this year.
When fully grown, Dik-Diks measure between 30cm and 40cm.
In the wild, Dik-Dik are found throughout Eastern, Central and Southern Africa.
Although not currently endangered, some localised populations of wild Dik-Dik are under threat from both poaching and habitat encroachment.
All Things Wild’s animal manager Matthew Parker said they were delighted to have Twiglet at the zoo and be able to support another international breeding programme.
“Dik-Diks are very shy and timid animals.
“They are also incredibly unusual, with a prehensile proboscis which reminds some people of an elephant’s trunk.”
The 25-acre All Things Wild is home to a host of animals including zebra and camels, along with a large dinosaur discovery park containing life-size dinosaur sculptures.
