Born on Melbourne Cup day, the little white foal has been nicknamed Effie after cup winner Efficient.

The birth sent a wave of excitement through staff as it carries worldwide significance.

Przewalski’s horses are the last of the world’s wild horses, with concerted efforts under way to ensure they do not become extinct.

Only about 100 to 120 remain in the wild in Mongolia, and Effie is the first Przewalski’s horse to survive at the zoo since 2001.

In the mid-90s, the zoo was involved in an international program and sent two mayors from Adelaide to re-establish the species in Mongolia, after they became extinct in the wild.

Monarto zoo senior curator Peter Clark said the mares had to go through some extreme climate changes, from 40C heat in Australia to -40C in Mongolia. “One of these mares is alive to this day and has had several foals,” he said.

“It is a big testament to their ability to survive in the most extreme of climatic conditions.

“They are tough animals.”