THERE has been another surprise arrival at Dudley Zoo as the second reindeer of the summer has been born.
Hot on the heels of the birth of Sunflower in July, 12-year-old Blizzard gave birth to a calf on Sunday, delighting keepers who had suspicions more babies were on the way.
Keeper Holly Clayton-Wright, said: “The baby is lovely and is feeding well and mum is also being really attentive. “Blizzard was keen to get outside but is sensibly keeping the newborn in the cooler shade and out of the direct sunshine.
“We haven’t managed to sex the baby yet, but it’s lovely that Sunflower will have a playmate.”
The out of season appearance comes four weeks after Sunflower, was born mum Lily, who also happens to be Blizzard's daughter.
Usually calves are born in April or May following a gestation of seven months.
Dad to both youngsters is alpha male, Ghost, who only came to the zoo in December after relocating from the Scottish Deer Centre in Cupar, Fife.
The four-year-old obviously got straight down to business after meeting the girls, despite rutting season normally being around September time.
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