Not only is this baby chick a symbol of hope for its species, but it’s also a record-breaker.
SAN ANTONIO — Springtime means baby animals are arriving at the San Antonio Zoo. Lots of babies are are born in the spring because it’s warmer, the days are longer, and there is more food available for the moms and their newborns.
The San Antonio Zoo is excited to announce a tiny predator with the big personality just hatched.
“We are thrilled to announce the arrival of a pint-sized powerhouse, a pygmy falcon chick, who made its grand debut on March 18, 2025,” said the San Antonio Zoo. “Weighing in at just 6.5 grams (a little more than a quarter) and hatched fully feathered, this bundle of joy has already stolen hearts and turned heads.”
The zoo says that not only is this chick a symbol of hope for its species, but it’s also a record-breaker. “According to the zoo database Species360 Zoological Information Management System, this is the only pygmy falcon chick to hatch in any U.S. zoo in the last year,” the zoo said. “And what’s even more exciting? This chick is the 12th pygmy falcon chick hatched at San Antonio Zoo, but the first one since 2004, making it a truly special event for our team.”
Squiggy and Laverne, the parents, were born hatched at the San Diego Zoo, and now are creating their very own family.
“While mom and dad are very proud parents, our amazing team of skilled Aviculture Animal Care Specialists has the newest chick set up in “The NEST,” a building where Aviculture Animal Care specialists hand rear baby birds,” said the zoo.
They are hand-raising this chick to give it a greater chance of success in adulthood. It has to be hand fed every two hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the early stages of development. The baby chick is in a special incubation unit right now that helps replicate the temperature needed for the early stages of development.
“This species is known for its unusual nesting habits, finding comfort in the homes of social weavers and even protecting their nests from predators—which gives the term “roommates” a whole new meaning,” said the zoo.
These beautiful birds have gray plumage and the females have chestnut brown feathers on their back.
“This Pygmy Falcon chick’s hatching is a monumental achievement for our animal care and conservation teams,” said Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Through our conservation programs, this birth contributes to the survival of its species and strengthens our passion and purpose. San Antonio Zoo is committed to securing a future for wildlife, and this little falcon proves we’re on the right track. Plus, who can resist that tiny, feather-filled cuteness?”
Visit the zoo and check out all of the babies that have been born this Spring.