The two tiny pups were born on 23 February 2026 to our resident pair Nuru and Mala, who arrived in the UK just a few months ago. With only four sengis currently in the UK, this achievement marks an important moment for both the zoo and the wider zoological community.
Weighing just 30 grams at birth, around the weight of a AA battery, the pups were so small they were initially missed by keepers and only discovered during a review of overnight CCTV footage.
This rare birth supports education and the continued study of this unusual African species, which is seldom seen in UK collections.
Tyler Whitnall, Managing Director at Hertfordshire Zoo, said:
“To welcome the first-ever sengi birth in the UK is incredibly special. Seeing them breed so quickly is a real testament to the exceptional care provided by our team.”
Hertfordshire Zoo’s sengis have already become a viral sensation, loved for their twitching mini-trunks and lightning-fast movements. The two new arrivals are expected to be a big draw for visitors.
The pups are thriving under the care of their parents and the zoo’s veterinary team and are expected to be fully active and visible to visitors in the coming weeks.
