Christmas has come early! Over the weekend the Abilene Zoo welcomed a baby steenbok into the world. This species of antelope inhabits most of southern Africa. The newborn female weighs just under two pounds. When full grown, a steenbok female can weigh up to twenty eight pounds. The Abilene Zoo’s Animal Care team is currently hand-raising this baby, who was born slightly under weight and did not begin nursing immediately. "We are going to ensure she is receiving the proper nutrition," said Dr. Stephanie Carle, Senior Veterinarian. “She is gaining weight and growing and we are pleased with her development.” The Abilene Zoo’s hope is to reunite her with her Mother shortly after the first of the year.