Meet Zarafa! Australia Zoo Introduce Latest Giraffe Calf

Australia Zoo have introduced the latest addition to their giraffe herd born on May 14th 2023. The parents are Sally and Guinness World Record holder Forest, the tallest living giraffe in the world measuring in at 5.7 metres (18 feet and 8 inches) tall. Her birth was announced on World Giraffe Day, held each year on June 21.

The calf has been named Zarafa, meaning “charming”, or “lovely one”, and also “giraffe” in Arabic. Her name was provided by Kenton Campbell, Zarraffa’s Coffee Managing Director and Founder during the Steve Irwin Gala Dinner grand auction held in Los Angeles in May 2023. 

”We’re absolutely thrilled to be playing a part in this next generation of giraffe conservation. Little Zarafa already has a place in our heart, both symbolically through our logo, and literally because she’s just so cute,” said Kenton.

“Giraffes have had a special meaning to our team and customers for over 25 years, and now we are able to play a part in the journey of a living legacy, through little Zarafa and our friends at Australia Zoo.”

Guests visiting Australia Zoo from June 24th 2023 may meet Zarafa as she begins making her exhibit debut. Until now she has been bonding with her mother in an off display area.

“This World Giraffe Day, Australia Zoo and Zarraffa’s Coffee are proud to introduce the world to Zarafa, an important member of Australia Zoo’s

very successful endangered species breeding program and a proud ambassador for her kind, which are now classified as endangered in Africa,” Robert said.  

Each year the Steve Irwin Gala Dinner is held in Los Angeles to raise funds to continue the important conservation work that Steve was so passionate about. Wildlife Warriors protects wildlife around the globe, creating a sustainable future for our precious fauna and flora.  

“The Steve Irwin Gala in Los Angeles was a huge celebration of Dad's life and legacy. It's thanks to everyone's incredible generosity and support that our vital conservation work through Wildlife Warriors can keep going from strength to strength, which not only protects wildlife, but entire ecosystems inclusive of humanity,” Robert Irwin said. 

Zarafa will play an important role in inspiring the next generation of Wildlife Warriors.