Franklin Park Zoo is thrilled to announce that the Masai giraffe calf born August 7 can now be seen exploring the Giraffe Savannah alongside his mother, Amari. 

This moment is a big milestone following the male calf’s health challenges right after birth and is a testament to the care and dedication of the Zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams. In the days following his birth, the calf was transported to Hospital for Large Animals at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, after not being able to successfully nurse post-birth. With the help of the team at Tufts, the calf was treated for health complications, received several plasma transfusions and learned how to successfully nurse from a bottle. Once he received a positive bill of health, the calf returned home to Franklin Park Zoo on August 19.

The lengthy process of reintroducing the calf with Amari began as soon as he returned to the Zoo. After being reacquainted in adjacent areas, both were given access to a shared larger space behind the scenes where Zoo staff could observe their interactions. Though Amari was initially hesitant with the calf, over the past several weeks, the staff was encouraged to see her display positive behaviors toward the calf, including nuzzling, licking, smelling and guiding the calf around their shared space. In the meantime, the animal care team continued to bottle feed the calf around the clock and help him acclimate to his new home.

“Any member of our animal care team will tell you that out of all the species you can work with, giraffes will teach you the most patience,” said Chris Bartos, an Assistant Curator at Franklin Park Zoo. “Our team has paid careful attention to every detail in this reintroduction, and we’re so happy to see Amari bond with her calf as he continues to explore his new home.”

At one month old, the calf has continued to grow and respond well to bottle feeding, now weighing around 225 pounds and standing nearly 7-feet tall. Zoo staff has noted how he has become faster, stronger, and even started to nibble on browse and lettuce. Currently, the calf and Amari are on a rotating schedule with Chad, the calf’s father. The Zoo’s animal care team is following behavioral cues from the giraffes and also being mindful of weather conditions as the calf takes time to get acquainted with his new habitat. 

Now, Franklin Park Zoo wants your help in picking the name for the new calf.

The auction, which is open now and closes on Sunday, September 28th at 8:00 p.m., is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the birth by bidding for a chance to name him or by donating in his honor. All auction proceeds will go directly to the care of our giraffes, which includes food, enrichment, and veterinary care. 

Standing tall and majestic, the Masai giraffe is one of Africa's most iconic and beloved species. Known for their distinctively patterned coats and towering stature, these gentle giants hold a special place in the hearts of animal lovers around the world. The birth of this calf is not only a joyous occasion for the zoo but also a significant milestone in the ongoing conservation efforts for this endangered species. Zoo New England (ZNE) participates in the Masai Giraffe Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative, inter-zoo breeding program managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). SSPs help to ensure the survival of selected species in zoos and aquariums, most of which are threatened or endangered, and enhance conservation of these species in the wild. 

Through a partnership with the Somali Giraffe Project, ZNE is helping conservation efforts of reticulated giraffes in Eastern Kenya.