A zoo in the UK is celebrating the arrival of a new giraffe calf. Ruby, a resident at Marwell Zoo, went into labour on Wednesday, August 21, and gave birth to a male Rothschild’s giraffe calf. Both the mother, Ruby, and father, Mburu, along with their newborn calf, are Rothschild’s giraffes, a species classified as Near Threatened on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List. The adorable calf, who already stands over 5 feet tall, is the first newborn addition to Marwell Zoo’s giraffe herd since 2012 - the same year Ruby was born. The birth is particularly remarkable, considering Ruby was on birth control, making her new calf a little miracle. The tiny giraffe is a testament to nature's resilience, proving that life finds a way even in the most unexpected circumstances. To ensure their well-being, the giraffe house was closed, providing Ruby and her calf the best chance of survival. Shortly after birth, the calf developed an infection that required antibiotic treatment, while Ruby experienced discomfort while feeding. As a first-time mother, Ruby was initially unsure about the new arrival, and both she and the calf struggled to adjust to feeding. Thanks to the outstanding efforts of our Hoofstock and Veterinary Teams, they’ve made significant progress. The zoo teams worked closely to encourage bonding between Ruby and her calf while ensuring the young one didn’t become dehydrated - a genuine concern when early feeding challenges arise. While the calf isn’t completely out of the woods, as there remains a high risk of another infection and newborns are always vulnerable in the early days, the situation is looking much more optimistic. Elyse Summerfield-Smith, Zoo Veterinarian, stated, “Ruby had a normal labour, and the calf arrived after just under four hours of labor. “Ruby is a first-time mum, and just like all first-time mums, she was a little nervous at first. However, with peace and quiet and plenty of help and support from the Hoofstock and Veterinary Teams, she has settled into her role. “Christa (the zoo’s other female giraffe) was a great support to Ruby during labour and has been enjoying her role as 'Auntie Christa' ever since. “Despite a short labour, Ruby had a difficult recovery, necessitating a few days of quiet for medical treatment; however, she is now back to full health. “Ruby’s calf found it a little bit tricky working out where the milk came from in the beginning, but after some care from the Veterinary and Hoofstock teams, he seems to have cracked it now! “He's an inquisitive chap and likes exploring all his surroundings. Like all small children, he absolutely hates his mum cleaning behind his ears.” Zoe Newnham, Senior Animal Keeper for Hoofstock, added, “Like all new babies, the giraffe calf has given the Hoofstock and Veterinary Teams more than a few sleepless nights, but we're delighted that Ruby and her calf are doing really well. “Each day, he's becoming more inquisitive, more confident, and is providing a lot of joy for the keepers. “It's lovely to see Ruby bonding with him as she learns how to be a mum. The calf is growing into his neck and legs, finding his feet, and growing well. It's a very exciting time for the team.” Featuring: Rothschild giraffe calf When: 28 Aug 2024 Credit: Marwell Zoo/Cover Images **EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED PHOTOGRAPHER AND/OR SUPPLIER.**