Science

Zoo celebrates birth of second pair of Sengi pups

It says Nuru and Mela are proving to be "exceptional parents".

Published June 13, 2026, 5:49 AM
Updated June 13, 2026, 6:00 AM3.2K
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Zoo celebrates birth of second pair of Sengi pups

A pair of black and rufous sengi, known as elephant shrews, have "defied the odds" by welcoming another pair of twin pups, said a zoo.

The new arrivals at Hertfordshire Zoo means it is now home to the the majority of the UK's elephant shrew population, with fewer than 10 of these animals in the country.

In March, Nuru and Mala, produced their first set of tiny additions in what was celebrated as a "significant victory for the wider zoological community".

Weighing just 30g (1oz) at birth, the pups, which have yet to be named, spent their initial weeks completely concealed within the family nest box. The zoo said Nuru and Mala are "proving to be exceptional parents."

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