Baby Giraffe Goes on Exhibit
Nashville Zoo’s three-week old Masai giraffe will be making her public debut this Saturday, June 23. Guests can see the young calf, named Camilla, on exhibit from 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Saturday in the African Savannah with the Zoo’s other female giraffes, Margarita and Layla.
“Camilla made a brief appearance on exhibit this morning so we could get her acclimated to the habitat,” said Kate Cortelyou, lead giraffe keeper. “Everything went very well, so we are excited for guests to officially meet her on Saturday.”
The Zoo’s 7-year old Masai giraffe Margarita gave birth to the female calf on Sunday, June 10. Now three weeks old, Camilla weighs 185 lbs. and stands 6 feet, 2 inches tall. The Zoo plans to alternate the three females on exhibit with male giraffe Congo, who has not been introduced to the baby yet. Congo will be on exhibit Saturday from 2:30 – 6 p.m. and during tomorrow’s member night from 6 – 8 p.m.
photo by Amiee Stubbs
“Congo is very interested in the baby, but due to the huge size difference, we are holding on introducing the two until she gets bigger,” said Cortelyou.
Camilla was named by Philanthropist Maggi (Margaret) Turner in honor of her niece, Camille. Margaret was instrumental in bringing giraffes to the Nashville Zoo and generously contributed to the “Stick Your Neck Out” campaign which raised funds to build the giraffe facility. Camilla’s Mom, Margarita, is named for Maggi (Margaret)
Masai giraffes are one of nine different sub-species and are known for their oak-leaf shaped spot pattern. They are native to the savannas of Kenya and Tanzania in Africa.
Nashville Zoo is accredited by the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums, assuring the highest standards of animal care and husbandry. Attracting more than 640,000 visitors annually, the Zoo is considered one of the top things to do in Nashville. The Zoo is a non-profit organization located at 3777 Nolensville Pike and is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. The mission of Nashville Zoo is to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership. For more information about Nashville Zoo, call 615-833-1534 or visit www.nashvillezoo.org.
Immediate Release: June 21, 2012
