FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo is happy to announce the birth of a male reticulated giraffe born the morning of August 10 to 12-year-old giraffe Faye and 16-year-old Ezeji. The baby giraffe currently stands 6’ tall and weighs 196 lbs. His name will be unveiled at a later date. The Fort Wayne Zoo is now home to a herd of seven reticulated giraffe, five females and two males.
“We are thrilled to see the herd grow by one!” Said Rick Schuiteman, Fort Wayne Zoo CEO & Executive Director. “This is the 22nd giraffe born at the Zoo and his Animal Care Team, along with his mother Faye, have all been attentive to his care. I am proud of our team and share in the excitement of seeing him doing so well.”
“In his first few days, the calf has spent time with mother, Faye, inside the giraffe barn. While the rest of the herd have been curious to meet the little one, introductions will happen slowly over the coming weeks,” said Ty Laemmle, Director of Animal Care. “After the introduction period, the next step will be to venture out into the outdoor habitat, which usually starts slow as he gains confidence.”
In the coming weeks, the baby boy may have access to the outdoor habitat but may choose to remain in his behind-the-scenes space. Please be patient with the new little one as he becomes comfortable with the habitat space and with the other giraffes in our care.
“Every birth contributes to the insurance of the survival of this endangered species. The Zoo actively participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), which helps manage a genetically diverse, demographically varied, and biologically sound population in professional care to ensure the survival of this species.” Says Dr. Kami Alvarado, Director of Animal Health & Conservation. “We are pleased with how this calf is progressing in his first days of life. He is bright, alert, nursing well, and showing all the signs we look for in a healthy newborn giraffe. Our animal care and veterinary teams continue to monitor both mom and calf closely. Along with a normal neonatal exam, he is currently meeting developmental milestones.”
