At 6 feet tall and more than 100 pounds, Zoo Atlanta's latest addition isn't exactly a tiny bundle. But the newborn giraffe arrived early Friday, the zoo announced.
The newborn, who so far is unnamed, is just the second giraffe calf born in the zoo's 122-year history and the first for mother, Mona.
“We’re delighted about the birth of Mona’s calf,” said Rebecca Snyder curator of mammals. “Giraffes are among the most popular animals in our collection, and they’re a stunning representation of the beauty and diversity of African wildlife. We’re excited about watching this little one grow, not just in feet, but in milestones.”
The calf's father, Abu, is also the father of Zuri, born July 13, 2010. Zuri is now 8-feet tall and weighs around 600 pounds.
At 15 months, the giraffe gestation period is one of the longest in the animal kingdom, according to Keisha Hines, zoo spokeswoman. Giraffes give birth standing up, and their offspring are usually born front feet-first and are able to walk within two hours of birth.
The zoo has not yet announced when the newborn will make its public debut.
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