The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden proudly announces the birth of a female Plains zebra foal, Lyra, born Saturday, November 29, 2025, in Expedition Africa presented by Inasmuch Foundation. Weighing 97 pounds at birth, Lyra is the offspring of mother Nebula and father Mars and is already exploring her habitat alongside her herd.
Lyra joins her parents, sister Aurora, and relatives Calypso and Atlas in the Zoo’s Plains zebra habitat along Predator Pass. The Zoo will soon begin merging its zebra and wildebeest herds to showcase the species’ natural symbiotic behaviors.
“Welcoming a new foal is always exciting,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, OKC Zoo executive director and CEO. “Lyra is a joy for guests and a reminder of the vital role zoos play in conserving wildlife for future generations.”
Guests can view Lyra and the rest of the dazzle, weather permitting, during regular Zoo hours.
Plains zebras, native to eastern and southern Africa, are classified as “near threatened” due to habitat loss. Known for their iconic black-and-white stripes and strong social bonds, zebras help support biodiversity as important grazers on the savanna.
This holiday season, guests are also invited to experience OKC Zoo SAFARI LIGHTS, presented by OG&E, running nightly through January 4, 2026. Tickets and information are available at okczoo.org/safarilights.