August 2, 2023
A male Masai giraffe, an endangered species on the decline globally, was born on July 14 in the Franklin Park Zoo. The calf’s parents, Chad and Amari, have been part of the Zoo population for several years. Photo courtesy Zoo New England
Franklin Park Zoo announced the birth on July 14 of a male Masai giraffe, who weighed in at 184 pounds and within an hour stood tall at six feet while his mother, Amari, nursed him.
The day after the birth, the Zoo’s veterinary team took bloodwork and examined the calf before the announcement by Dr. Chris Bonar, Zoo New England Director of Animal Health, that “he is a strong, healthy calf and appears bright and alert. As with any newborn, he will be closely monitored by his care team as he continues to grow and reach milestones.”
The newborn’s public debut will be announced in the coming months.
Zoo New England is an active participant in the Masai Giraffe Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is a cooperative, inter-zoo program coordinated nationally through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
The global population of this iconic giant (a fully grown Masai giraffe can reach 19 feet in height and weigh up to 4,200 pounds) has declined by 40 percent over the last 30 years. By sharing research and knowledge, participating institutions work together to establish guidelines that best ensure the health of captive populations, and with success, the survival of endangered species.
Chad, the calf’s father, joined the Franklin Park Zoo from the Santa Barbara Zoo in 2018.
