Emirates Park Zoo & Resort’s clan have welcomed Sora, a spotted hyena, the first of its kind at the establishment which houses more than 120 species of wildlife animals and birds.

All focus of the staff and zoo officials is on Sora as they nurse the cub to socialize into its new home. Typical to the species, its caregiver confirmed that its gender cannot be determined until a year has passed since its day of birth.

Commenting on Sora’s arrival, the zoo operations manager of Emirates Park Zoo & Resort Dr. Waleed Sha’aban said, “We are being extra cautious leaving no stone unturned to ensure the enclosure remains undisturbed, especially considering the spotted hyena is listed as a ‘near threatened’ species.”

He added, “It has been nearly two months since the birth of Sora and we have witnessed positive growth of the cub. An animal caregiver is monitoring Sora throughout the day. It is very calm and has dug her own den indicating comfort and we consider this as an exceptionally good sign”.

Zoo officially are closely observing Sora for signs of its gender. Signature to the hyena species, females are noted to be more dominant and larger to its male counterparts. “I must say, Sora is a curious one! We have seen Sora peeking through her den trying to explore her surroundings a few times. It looks just like a little puppy, just one you cannot play with since they are known to be very aggressive and always ready to fight,” Dr. Sha’aban concluded.

Visitors can view Sora and the rest of the spotted hyenas at the Wildlife park section located in Emirates Park Zoo and Resort, from 9am to 8pm on weekdays and 9am to 9pm on weekends.