On March 25th, twin ewe (female) lambs were born to Cosley Zoo’s ewe Opal.  Each of the lambs weighed about 10 lbs at birth. Another of the Wheaton, Illinois Zoo’s ewes, Pearl, gave birth to a single ram (male) lamb on April 2nd.  He weighed a whooping 15 lbs at birth!

Photo Credits: Sarah Parisi / Cosley Zoo

More pics and info below the "fold"…

Most recently, the Zoo’s ewe, Rose, had twin ram lambs. The lambs weighed 10 lbs and 11 lbs, and were born on April 10th.

New lambs are not the only additions to the Zoo lately.  The nanny goat, Daffodil, gave birth to twin kids, one doe (female) and one buck (male) on May 15th.  The kids weighed in at 6 lbs 8 oz and 6 lbs 10 oz., respectively. Like all hooved animals, lambs and kid goats are able to stand up and nurse within one hour after birth.

Cosley Zoo is one of only two free zoos in the State of Illinois and is open 362 days a year. Cosley Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).  The accreditation process consists of a detailed review and inspection covering all aspects of an institution’s operation including the animal collection; veterinary care; physical facilities; safety; security; finance; staff; governing authority; support organization; involvement in education, conservation, and research; and adherence to AZA policies. Accreditation occurs every five years and is a requirement for zoos and aquariums to be members of AZA. Of approximately 2,800 USDA licensed wildlife exhibitors, only 213 have achieved AZA accreditation.