The Metro Richmond Zoo welcomed an adorable new addition to its giraffe herd! A female Reticulated giraffe calf was born on May 9, 2026, to mom Chrissy and dad Bogey after a 15-month pregnancy.

The calf made quite an entrance, arriving in front of surprised zoo guests during a morning delivery outside the giraffe barn. Like all giraffes, the baby was born standing up and dropped nearly six feet to the ground — a completely natural part of the birth process that helps stimulate the calf’s first breath.

First-time visitors may be amazed to learn the newborn already stands close to six feet tall and weighs between 150 and 175 pounds. She stood for the first time just over an hour after birth and is already nursing and exploring on her wobbly legs.

The birth is especially meaningful because mom Chrissy has her own inspiring story. Born at the zoo in 2011, she was hand-raised by zoo staff after being rejected by her mother. Now 14 years old, Chrissy has become a caring and attentive mom herself and recently welcomed her third calf.

Guests visiting the zoo may be able to spot the baby and Chrissy outside together, weather permitting. The calf has not yet been named, and the zoo is inviting the public to share name ideas on social media.

Reticulated giraffes are listed as endangered, making every birth an important step in helping protect the species. This marks the 24th giraffe calf born at the zoo since 2000.

And don’t forget! You can fee the other giraffes while you are there! For details on hours, fees, and more visit https://metrorichmondzoo.com/.

**Photo credit: Metro Richmond Zoo**