Four Maccoa ducklings, among the rarest ducks in mainland Africa, have emerged at Chester Zoo in what conservationists are calling a significant breeding breakthrough.

It is the first time the endangered species has been successfully bred at the zoo.

They are among the rarest ducks in mainland Africa (Image: Chester Zoo) Andrew Owen, head of birds at Chester Zoo, said: "As one of just seven zoos in Europe, and 12 zoos globally, that care for Maccoa ducks, these ducklings are very special as they’re the first of their kind to ever hatch here at the zoo – making it a really historic moment for our team.

"This success gives a real boost to the future of the species and these vital new additions will contribute to the safety-net population in zoos.

"These birds are facing rapid decline in the wild, so every hatchling really does count.

"To see them now out on the water inside our new Heart of Africa habitat, which is dedicated to helping Africa’s most threatened species thrive, makes this milestone even more special."

The ducklings are the first to hatch in the zoo’s new 22.5-acre Heart of Africa zone, a dedicated conservation area focused on threatened African wildlife.

The Maccoa duck, native to Central and East Africa, is estimated to have a wild population of just 5,000 individuals.

Recent surveys have found only 14 in Kenya and fewer than 100 in Tanzania.

The species is listed as endangered on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List.

The Maccoa duck is known for its stiff tail feathers, deep-blue bill, and diving behaviour.

It relies on freshwater wetlands and lakes, which are under threat from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

The ducklings have hatched in the Heart of Africa habitat (Image: Chester Zoo) Chester Zoo is one of only a dozen institutions worldwide working with the species.

Conservationists hope the successful hatching will help raise awareness of the species’ plight and contribute to a sustainable safety-net population in captivity.

The long-term goal is to support future reintroduction programmes and wider conservation efforts in Africa.

The zoo’s Heart of Africa zone is part of a wider strategy to support endangered wildlife through habitat creation, breeding programmes, and public engagement.

The hatching of the Maccoa ducklings is seen as a positive step in the zoo’s efforts to protect African biodiversity.

Chester Zoo continues to work with conservation partners to support the recovery of threatened species across the continent.

The public can view the ducklings in the Heart of Africa habitat, where they are already exploring the water under the care of their parents.

The zoo hopes their story will inspire visitors to learn more about African wildlife and the importance of global conservation efforts.