SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — A giraffe gave birth to her first calf at Utah’s Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City, with zoo officials saying he appears curious and healthy.
Minka, an 8-year-old giraffe, gave birth to a male calf, who was 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighed 139 pounds at birth. The calf was born just before 1:40 a.m. on Monday, and was announced by zoo officials on Saturday.
“The birth occurred naturally in the African Savanna barn, with the animal care team monitoring the delivery in person and via cameras,” officials said in the announcement, adding that they prepared for the natural six-foot drop by creating a soft landing area.
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They said the team was able to assist the calf as he found his footing. He then bonded with Minka and began nursing and exploring.
“He has shown a calm, curious demeanor and responded well during his first health checkup and routine care, qualities that will support future training,” officials said.
Male calf at Utah’s Hogle Zoo.{ }(Photo: Utah’s Hogle Zoo)
Minka and her calf will be kept in a private area away from zoo guests as they adjust. Officials did not say when they would be visible to the public, but added that the giraffe herd is kept indoors during the winter and brought out when temperatures are at least 50 degrees.
This is Minka’s first calf, and Ja, the father’s, second. Ja’s first calf, Nguvu, was born at the zoo last February and was 6 feet, 2 inches tall and 169 pounds.
Ja was transferred to the Hogle Zoo in 2022 on a breeding recommendation.
Officials said this calf is “an important milestone in protecting giraffes,” as they are considered a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and poaching. Conservation officials estimate there are approximately 117,000 giraffes in their natural habitat.
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