ABILENE, Texas — Abilene Zoo announced the birth of Marion, a healthy female Red River hog piglet, the first Red River hog born to the zoo.
Marion was born April 23, 2024, and the zoo says the significant moment highlights the success of the Species Survival Plan in preserving endangered species and enhancing biodiversity.
The new piglet is the daughter of first-time parents, J and Shooter. Abilene Zoo said Marion is bonding with her mother, J, who provides excellent care to her newborn. J was born at the Dallas Zoo four years ago and has a heartwarming connection to her zookeeper, Amberlee, who was pivotal in her upbringing.
“I am very excited to help raise Marion since I also raised J years ago at the Dallas Zoo. Watching J grow, watching her be a mom, and now helping her raise Marion is very exciting. This is something you don’t get to experience often,” Zookeeper, Amberlee Belsick, said.
The litter size of Red River hogs can vary between one and six piglets. The piglets are also known as “watermelon babies” because of their distinctive striped markings at birth.
Marion’s arrival is particularly special as she embodies the success of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums SSP and helps raise awareness about the conservation needs of her species, which faces threats from habitat loss and hunting in their native habitats of West and Central Africa.
The zoo says Marion is developing quickly and currently out on exhibit.
"Abilene Zoo invites the community to join us in celebrating Marion’s birth and learn more about the remarkable Red River Hogs. As Marion begins her journey of growth and discovery, we remain steadfast in our mission to inspire conservation action and ensure a brighter future for wildlife," a zoo release said.
For more information about Marion and the Abilene Zoo, click here.
