Hampshire zoo welcomes first baby giraffe in 12 years
The youngster was born at Marwell Zoo near Winchester last week
Last updated 28th Aug 2024
For the first time in more than a decade, a newborn giraffe is settling into life at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire.
The male Rothschild's giraffe calf was born last week, after mother Ruby went into labour last Wednesday (August 21st).
The new arrival, who has already grown to more than 5ft tall, is the first addition to the herd at the site near Winchester since Ruby's arrival in 2012.
Even more spectacularly, Ruby was on birth control at the time.
Keepers at the zoo closed the giraffe enclosure to ensure both mother and baby had the best chance of survival.
Shortly after he was born, the calf picked up an infection that needed treating with antibiotics whilst Ruby was suffering discomfort when feeding, and keepers haven't ruled out the risk of further infections in future.
Elyse Summerfield-Smith, veterinarian at Marwell, said:
"Ruby is a first-time mum, and just like all first-time mums she was a little nervous at first! However, with peace and quiet and plenty of help and support from the Hoofstock and Veterinary Teams she has settled into her role.
"Christa (the zoo’s other female giraffe) was a great support to Ruby during labour and has been enjoying her role as "Auntie Christa" ever since!
"Despite a short labour, Ruby had a difficult recovery necessitating a few days quiet for medical treatment, however she is now back to full health.
"Ruby’s calf found it a little bit tricky working out where the milk came from in the beginning, but after some care from the veterinary and Hoofstock teams, he seems to have cracked it now!
"He's an inquisitive chap and likes exploring all his surroundings. Like all small children, he absolutely hates his mum cleaning behind his ears!"
The giraffe house is due to reopen to guests on Thursday (August 29th) but everyone will need to be calm, quiet and considerate when visiting.
Guests will also need to be patient whilst zoo staff work to make sure everyone has a chance to see this precious new arrival.
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