The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Florida are filled with joy as they welcome a new addition to their animal family – a male baby giraffe.
The 13-year-old mother, Lune, gave birth to her sixth calf on June 2, bringing happiness to the zookeepers and visitors alike.
The zookeepers have reported that both mother and baby are in good health, making this a delightful moment for everyone involved.
The Jacksonville Zoo proudly announced, “Our giraffe tower has grown with the arrival of another long-necked member.
Today, 13-year-old Luna gave birth to her sixth calf, now on exhibit. Our dedicated animal care staff will continue to monitor the well-being of both mother and calf.”
During a newborn examination, it was confirmed that the adorable calf was a male. He spends most of his time close to his mother, often seeking refuge between her legs.
Already, his towering legs surpass the height of most humans. This unique feature allows giraffes to sprint up to 35 miles per hour over short distances and maintain a pace of 10 miles per hour while covering longer distances.
The remarkable height of giraffes gives them an advantage in their natural habitat. Their long necks enable them to effortlessly reach food sources in treetops, inaccessible to many other animals.
These majestic creatures consume hundreds of pounds of leaves every week and often travel long distances searching for their preferred foliage.
Interestingly, female giraffes are born standing up, resulting in a gentle fall from a height of over 5 feet to the ground.
In contrast, male giraffes are taller and heavier, and their ossicones (the horn-like structures on their heads) lack fur on top. These ossicones serve as a form of protection during combats, known as “necking,” and symbolize their strength.
Each giraffe boasts a unique pattern on their skin, although individuals from the same region often share similar appearances.
Giraffe groups are typically genderless, formed based on various factors such as ecological, temporal, and social aspects. However, there can be exceptions to this norm.
If you plan to visit the Jacksonville Zoo anytime soon, make sure to keep an eye out for the adorable baby giraffe. This newest arrival will surely capture visitors’ hearts with its charm and playfulness.