Reunited

Reunited and it feels so good 

A heartwarming family reunion has taken place at Hobbledown in Surrey as Kado the camel was reunited with his mother and brother after years apart.

Kado, a beloved two-humped Bactrian Camel who has lived at Hobbledown since 2017, has been reunited with his mother, Lucy, and younger brother, Sopwith, in an emotional gathering that has captured the hearts of our staff and visitors alike.

Background and challenges

In 2017, Kado arrived at Hobbledown along with his father, Ghengis, from Banham Zoo. The pair became a favourite among guests, offering many the unique opportunity to see camels up close.

Sadly, the end of 2022 brought sorrow to Hobbledown with the passing of Ghengis. In the wake of his loss, our dedicated zoo team worked tirelessly to ensure Kado received the best care and companionship during his period of mourning.

Kado faced health challenges of his own, suffering from inflamed wounds on his knees. Our team explored every non-surgical option to treat his condition, from laser treatment to Manuka honey applications. Ultimately, surgery was deemed necessary but thanks to our skilled veterinary team and the incredible effort of our zookeepers, Kado underwent a successful surgical procedure under sedation, followed by a full recovery.

Journey to reunion

As Kado’s health stabilised, our management team began efforts to find suitable companions for him. Fortune smiled upon us when we learned that two camels from Banham Zoo were looking for a new home – none other than Kado’s own mother and brother!

The reunion took place last week and has since brought immense joy and comfort to Kado, as well as to all of us here at Hobbledown.

Observing Kado with Lucy and Sopwith, it is clear that their bond is strong and filled with affection. This family reunion is not just a testament to the resilience and spirit of these wonderful animals but also underscores our commitment at Hobbledown to animal welfare and emotional well-being.

Truly heart-warming

Head Zookeeper Lucy White said: “Seeing Kado with his mother and brother again is truly heartwarming. It’s a beautiful moment for everyone here at Hobbledown.”

About Hobbledown:

Hobbledown Epsom is an unique adventure farm park and zoo that offers an immersive experience with a wide variety of animals and play adventures. Dedicated to providing exceptional care for our animals and a memorable experience for our visitors, Hobbledown is committed to conservation and education about wildlife and nature.

www.hobbledown.com/epsom