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Endangered giraffe baby born in US zoo

A baby Masai giraffe was born on the 31st at Columbus Zoo, located in the United States. The birth was received in a special way, as the species is threatened with extinction.

The as-yet-unnamed newborn was born to a 12-year-old giraffe named Zuri — according to a zoo press release.

“Not only is the cub fiercely cute, but its birth is especially significant as it marks an important achievement for the future of this endangered species,” the zoo said.

After a few failed attempts, the baby was able to stand up, take a few steps and nurse, shortly after birth, the zoo says.

The day after his birth, zoo staff performed a welfare check and confirmed that the cub is healthy.

Masai giraffes are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). There are about 35,000 of the remaining subspecies in Tanzania and Kenya, but their population is declining due to poaching and habitat destruction, the organization says.

The baby’s parents, Zuri and Enzi, were matched through the Species Survival Plan, a program coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to ensure endangered species maintain genetic diversity. The cub’s father was euthanized in 2021 due to chronic health problems, the zoo says.

The newborn has been on the way for a long time: giraffes gestate for 15 months. The “miracle baby” is the 23rd giraffe born at Columbus Zoo, the statement said.

“We are heartbroken to lose Enzi, and this calf is an incredible gift to us and the future of all Masai giraffes,” said Shannon Borders, curator of the Heart of Africa region at the Columbus Zoo. “This little one is truly our miracle baby, and it warms our hearts that Enzi’s legacy lives on to have such a positive impact.”

The calf’s birth is just one part of the zoo’s efforts to improve the Masai giraffe population, the statement said.

“From our successful giraffe breeding program, contributions to field conservation projects and leadership in animal health initiatives that benefit giraffes, we are fully committed to making a difference for Masai giraffes and other species that depend on their care. place in nature,” said Columbus Zoo president Tom Schmid.

Visitors still won’t be able to see the mother and baby for now, but the rest of the giraffes are still on display, the zoo added.

Source: CNN Brasil

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