Giraffe Calf Marks a First at Hunter Valley Wildlife Park

In a heartwarming milestone for the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, Kebibi, a first-time giraffe mum, has welcomed the park’s very first giraffe calf. The healthy male calf, born on 15 September 2024, weighs in at a sturdy 80 kilograms and already stands over six feet tall — towering over most humans just three weeks after his birth.

Kebibi’s birth story unfolded under the night sky, with staff watching through night vision to ensure the process was progressing smoothly without needing to disrupt the mother and calf. Zookeeper Chad Staples, who was on hand for the exciting moment, described the birth as a “tense but thrilling” event after a lengthy 16-month pregnancy.

“We were there monitoring her quietly with a night vision rangefinder, ensuring everything was going well,” Chad explained. “It’s always a nerve-wracking experience, but we’re so relieved that Kebibi’s maternal instincts kicked in immediately, and she’s taken to motherhood brilliantly.”

The birth is a significant achievement for the zoo, marking their first-ever giraffe calf. The calf is already proving to be a bundle of energy, confidently exploring his enclosure, a characteristic that Chad says shows his adventurous spirit. “He’s definitely got that curiosity — he’s already running around and checking out his new world.”

While the calf enjoys his early days at the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, plans are already in place for his future. In the next 18 months, he will eventually make his way south to Mogo Wildlife Park on the NSW South Coast, where he is expected to become the dominant breeding male for a new herd.

But before that journey, there’s an important task to complete — naming the little giant. The zoo has invited the public to suggest names for the calf, with a focus on reflecting his African heritage or his playful and bold nature.

“This name will stick with him for life — he’s going to be a breeding bull one day and will grow to over four metres tall. It’s a big responsibility, but also a unique opportunity for people to be part of his story,” Chad added.

The baby giraffe’s birth marks a new chapter for the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, as they continue their efforts in conservation and education through their growing wildlife family.

Those who would like to submit a name suggestion for the calf can do so through the park’s website, with the final decision resting in the hands of the keepers.