The Memphis Zoo, established in 1906, currently houses approximately 3,500 animals and 500 different species. Recently, the zoo celebrated the birth of a baby Somali giraffe, who is now the youngest princess of the zoo.
The giraffe named Wandy gave birth to the calf, named Milele, in the early hours of June 7th, much to the delight of the staff who had been eagerly awaiting her arrival. The name Milele, meaning “forever,” was chosen in honor of the long wait for her birth.
Both mother and calf were examined and found to be in good health. Milele has a confident personality and enjoys walking around her mother and asserting her presence.
Upon meeting her father, sister, and brother, Milele was delighted to see other giraffes. Somali giraffes are currently endangered, so they are kept in sanctuaries and zoos to protect their population. Breeding programs are underway to help restore their population and eventually return them to the wild.
Somali giraffes are the tallest land animals and can grow up to 18 feet tall. Their graceful patterns and noble movements make them a magnificent sight to behold.
