AssetID: 55694705
Headline: Safari Park welcomes first dwarf forest buffalo calf in over a decade
Caption: A surprise baby buffalo has been born at a UK safari park for the first time in more than a decade. Keepers at Woburn Safari Park were left stunned after first-time mum Cadbury gave birth to a dwarf forest buffalo calf on May 3. The critically endangered calf is the first of her species to be born at the park in over 10 years - and staff had no idea Cadbury was pregnant. Cadbury had only arrived at the Bedfordshire attraction from another wildlife collection at the end of 2025, with keepers unaware she had brought a hidden surprise with her. Tom Robson, Head of Reserves, said: “This was a pleasant surprise for the team, we were not expecting a calf with this group. Dwarf forest buffalo are a critically endangered species and her birth highlights a lesser-known species to the guests.” The newborn was quickly on her feet after being born and immediately began exploring her surroundings - despite still being a little wobbly. Keepers said the rest of the herd welcomed the tiny newcomer with curiosity, while protective mum Cadbury has been feeding and bonding closely with her calf. Other animals sharing the Savannah Grasslands have also taken an interest in the new arrival. Zebras and rhinos have been spotted watching the calf closely, while Ankole cattle were even seen giving her an affectionate lick. Staff said some members of the buffalo herd have also attempted to “mother” the calf themselves as she settles into life at the park. Dwarf forest buffalo are one of the smallest species of buffalo and are specially adapted to woodland habitats, with backward-swept horns designed to stop them becoming tangled in branches.
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