JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens announced Monday the birth of a male giraffe calf as their newest addition.
The calf was born in the early hours of Sunday, June 12, marking him the 39th giraffe born at the Zoo.
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Veterinary staff said the boy is in good health, measuring 6'4" tall and 187 pounds. This makes him the tallest giraffe calf ever born at the Zoo.
PHOTOS: Giraffe calf born at Jacksonville Zoo
He was introduced to the habitat over the weekend and is now on exhibit with his mother and the rest of the herd.
The Jacksonville Zoo now has two infants under a month old in the herd.
The birth comes just in time to celebrate World Giraffe Day on June 21.
The Jacksonville Zoo will join other zoos and conservation organizations around the world to celebrate the holiday.
World Giraffe Day is always observed on the longest day of the year in a nod to the long necks of the giraffes, whose populations are in decline.
Zookeepers will be talking to the public about giraffe facts and conservation efforts.
Funds from the giraffe feedings will be donated to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.