The Wilds Celebrate Birth of their 22nd Giraffe Calf

The Wilds have celebrated the birth of the 22nd giraffe calf as part of their conservation project for this threatened species. The calf was born in the early hours of August 17 2023 just outside of the zoo's giraffe barn.

Since the birth care staff have kept a close eye on the female calf who appears strong and has been seen suckling from her mother. The mother of the calf is known as savannah, an experienced mother who has previously raised seven calves. Savannah was born at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in August 2003 and has lived at The Wilds since 2004.

The father of the calf is Raha, he was born at the Los Angeles Zoo in April 2006 and arrived at The Wilds from the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium in 2009, where he has since sired 11 calves.

Raha and Savannah were paired by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a program designed to increase the genetic health and diversity of threatened and endangered species in professional care.

“We are excited about the birth of this most recent calf and proud of the continued success of our giraffe breeding program. The Wilds also plays an integral role in inspiring our guests to connect with wildlife and join us in taking action to help protect the future of threatened and endangered species. Births are always worth celebrating, especially as they contribute to our purpose of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.,” said Dr. Joe Smith, Vice President of The Wilds.

Masai giraffe are listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Over the last three decades their numbers have dropped by 90% in their native Africa. Poaching, habitat loss and civil unrest have all played a part in their population dropping to just 35,000 individuals.

The Wilds support the survival of giraffe both through their breeding program and funding on the ground conservation work in Africa. Over five years they have contributed more than $172,000 to conservation efforts aimed at saving giraffe.