Western Plain Zoo's new Bongo calf plays as hard to get as his mum did when she first met her mate. Ekundu was a reluctant participant in his first media photo call yesterday, preferring to stick close to his female relatives and away from strangers. Mother Shani was shy when keepers introduced her to resident Bongo male Marraquie in 2003. But after two babies in two years, the chemistry between them has clearly kicked in. Love's grande in the Bongos' redeveloped exhibit where Ekundu's birth late last month comes hard on the heels of sister Bintu's arrival in August 2004. The new calf's name, meaning red in Swahilli, is a reflection of its gorgeous coat that along with a rather large set of ears make the zoo's newest animal a valued attraction with the Christmas holidays approaching. "Ekundu is doing really well. He is sure to be a hit with visitors to the zoo during the school holidays," said African division supervisor Roger Brogan. But the little antelope, like his parents and sister, are so much more than tourist attractions. According to Mr Brogan there are less than 10 Bongos in Australia and in the wild their numbers are unknown. The Bongo lives deep in the tropical rainforests of Africa and relies on hearing to avoid predators. Although they are not considered to be endangered, Bongos are reported to be under threat from habitat destruction and poaching. Shani was given to Taronga Zoo as an 80th birthday gift by San Diego Zoo. Her female offspring is expected to be sent to Adelaide in six months time to help boost its breeding program. Ekundu, too, will eventually play his part in ensuring the continuation of the easy-going species that Mr Brogan says "you can't help but love". It is hoped that as the children leave home, mum and dad will keep filling the exhibit with the patter of little hooves. "To produce two Bongo calves in two years is an outstanding result," Mr Brogan said. "The breeding and display of the Bongo helps raise awareness of the issues facing this spectacular species in the wild."