Video courtesy to the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens has a newborn giraffe calf, the zoo announced on Friday, Jan. 31.
The calf, whose name hasn’t been released, was born just under 6 feet tall to mother Gigi and father Juma. This is the second giraffe calf at the El Paso Zoo, according to the news release by the City of El Paso.
According to the City, the birth is a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AMA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for reticulated giraffes to ensure genetic diversity among the managed populations in human care.
“We’re delighted to welcome this new addition to our Zoo family,” El Paso Zoo and
Botanical Gardens Director Joe Montisano said. “Both Gigi and her calf are doing well, and our
staff is providing around-the-clock care to ensure their health and well-being. We’re eager
for our guests to meet the calf once mom and baby have bonded and weather conditions
are favorable.”
Currently, the calf is being cared for in a private, off-exhibit area at the zoo but visitors can stay updated and watch the “Giraffe Cam” to see the calf’s first week at the El Paso Zoo’s website.
The City said they will announce the calf’s viewing opportunity to the public through the zoo’s social media channels.
The birth follows the Zoo’s first giraffe calf, Obi, who recently left for his new home at the Dallas Zoo in December 2024.
Obi joined a group of female giraffes with the hope of contributing to the conservation of the endangered species, the City said.
“The SSP has recommended Obi for breeding to ensure the long-term sustainability of
Reticulated Giraffes, which face threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and political
instability,” the City said.
For more information, you can visit the El Paso Zoo’s website.
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