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TUCSON - Despite major complications at birth, a new baby zebra is generating excitement at the Reid Park Zoo.

The male foal was born sometime Friday night into Saturday morning. Officials say the baby zebra appeared fine at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday when keepers arrived. However, it became weak by late morning and continued to get worse.

Zoo Veterinarian, Dr. Alexis Moreno, decided they needed to step in to try to help. "He was seriously ill," said Dr. Moreno. "There was a time when I didn't think he would survive without medical treatment. Even with aggressive care, the outlook was grim."

They separated the foal from its mother, "Ferasi" and gave it antibiotics, plasma and fluids. It was then returned to its mother and placed on a 48 hour watch. Officials say by Sunday, the baby was up and nursing but because he was still ill he was treated again with fluids and antibiotics.

"He is not out of the woods yet," warns Dr. Moreno. "Ideally, I would have liked to administer additional antibiotics. But separating him from his protective mom would be too stressful for both of them. So for now, we wait and watch closely."

The baby is a Grevy's Zebra which is an endangered species. The gestation period for Grevy's zebra is 13 months, and keepers have been anxiously awaiting the new arrival.

Reid Park Zoo is an active participant in the Species Survival Plan, which works to protect this species through captive breeding, education programs, and conservation efforts. The Species Survival Plan includes 39 facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The young zebra is not on exhibit yet, and remains behind the scenes for careful observation.

The Zoo is open 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily. Admission rates are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors 62+, and $3 for children ages 2-14. For additional information call 791-4022.