Updated: Friday, 23 Oct 2009, 12:58 PM EDT
Published : Thursday, 22 Oct 2009, 8:29 PM EDT
NORFOLK, Va. - The tallest family in Hampton Roads just got a little bigger.
Zookeepers at the Virginia Zoo say a new baby girl giraffe was born Wednesday night. They haven't named her yet, but the 6 foot tall, 150 pound female seems to be doing well. But zoo officials are keeping a close eye on the mother and daughter.
"Despite their size, all large animal babies are considered to be vulnerable for at least 24 to 48 hours after birth," said executive director Greg Bockheim. "We are going to take a conservative approach to give her the best start, even if that means keeping mom and baby off exhibit for a few days.”
Mom, Imara and Dad, Billy, and 14 and 17 feet tall respectively. Zookeepers say they will keep the giraffes away from the public for a few days to allow them to bond. When the exhibit reopens, visitors will be able to view the giraffes through a elevated windows.
As soon as the exhibit re-opens, visitors can check out the new baby giraffe daily from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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