Graceful and swift, impalas are the athletes of the animal kingdom, and Marla, the zoo’s impala, lives up to this reputation with ease. With her slender legs and striking reddish-brown coat, she captures the hearts of visitors who marvel at her ability to leap over obstacles with effortless precision.
Marla’s most impressive feat is her 10-meter bounds, which she performs during daily enrichment sessions. The keepers often set up small hurdles or logs, encouraging her to display her natural talents. One memorable day, Marla decided to leap over not just the hurdle but also a tall bush behind it, landing with perfect poise. The crowd erupted in applause, and Marla stood proudly, as if acknowledging her audience.
In addition to her agility, Marla is known for her playful curiosity. She often nudges at new items in her enclosure, from colorful balls to scattered hay bundles, exploring them with her delicate nose. Her story highlights the elegance and intelligence of antelopes and the importance of preserving their natural habitats.