Toledo’s Zoo Celebrates New Giraffe Calf

Toledo’s Zoo Welcomes its Newest Addition: Giraffe Calf Captivates VisitorsToledo’s Zoo Welcomes its Newest Addition: Giraffe Calf Captivates Visitors Toledo, Ohio – The Toledo Zoo is brimming with excitement as it announces the joyous arrival of a new giraffe calf. The birth has brought immense joy to the zoo community and has delighted visitors of all ages. The calf, an adorable female, was born on May 16, 2023, to mother, Rani, and father, Titan. She weighs a healthy 150 pounds and stands approximately 6 feet tall. The calf has been named “Onyx” due to her striking black and white coat. “We are thrilled to welcome Onyx to our family,” said Dr. Chris Jensen, the zoo’s veterinarian. “Her birth is a testament to the exceptional care our animal care team provides and the thriving environment we have created for our giraffes.” Onyx has quickly become a popular member of the zoo’s giraffe herd. Visitors can now observe her bonding with her mother and exploring her enclosure alongside the other giraffes. The playful and curious calf has already captured the hearts of many. “It’s amazing to see how quickly Onyx has adapted to her new surroundings,” said Jennifer Wood, the zoo’s giraffe keeper. “She is very playful and loves to interact with her mother and the rest of the herd.” The Toledo Zoo is home to a herd of 10 giraffes, including Onyx and her parents. Giraffes are the tallest land animals on Earth, known for their distinctive appearance and gentle nature. The zoo’s giraffe exhibit provides them with a spacious enclosure that mimics their natural habitat. The arrival of Onyx is a significant event for the zoo and the giraffe conservation community. Giraffes are facing habitat loss and population decline in the wild. By breeding giraffes in captivity, the zoo contributes to the preservation and genetic diversity of this iconic species. “We are proud to be part of the effort to protect giraffes,” said Jeff Sailer, the zoo’s executive director. “Onyx’s birth is not only a celebration but also an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of giraffe conservation.” Visitors to the Toledo Zoo are encouraged to come and visit Onyx and the rest of the giraffe herd. The zoo is open daily, and guests can enjoy close encounters with these majestic animals through feeding experiences and guided tours.