Name Imara’s Baby!

The Virginia Zoo welcomed a female Masai giraffe calf on June 4, 2017. At birth, the calf weighed 149 pounds, and stood 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Now the staff is looking to give this girl a name.

 

The Zoo will be accepting names for the calf until Friday, June 23. At that time, Zoo Keepers will vote on submissions. Due to an overwhelming amount of submissions, a name will be announced on Friday, June 30.

 

Submit your favorite name that starts with the letter ‘i’ and if your name is chosen you’ll win a 4-pack of Zoo tickets and Zoo swag bag. Good luck!

Names can be submitted at virginiazoo.org/name-contest/.

 

Imara, five-time mom, and baby can be viewed by Zoo visitors at the indoor giraffe exhibit in Africa – Okavango Delta exhibit, and will soon be given access to start exploring their outdoor exhibit and introduced to the two other Masai giraffes. At birth, Veterinary and Animal Care staff found the calf was born with a birth defect called carpal laxity, where her front limbs appear to bow slightly backwards as she walks. However, the calf seems to be already growing out of this condition, as her Keepers have observed normal behaviors of walking and running around the exhibit.

 

Zoo fans can also show their support by “zoodopting” Mom and baby. For just $50, Zoo Parents contribute to the animal’s care and feeding for one year, as well as provide specialized training for Virginia Zoo Keepers. Visit virginiazoo.org/get-involved/zoodoptions/giraffe-zoodoption-special/  for the Zoodoption special.

 

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