Metro Richmond Zoo welcomes baby Giraffe born just before Mother’s Day

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Chrissy the Giraffe, a long-time staple of the Metro Richmond Zoo, welcomed her baby just before Mother’s Day.

The zoo says that compared to other female giraffes in their herd, Chrissy is known for her quick deliveries. Making it an easy experience for staff.

At 9: 58 a.m. on Saturday, Chrissy was ready to go. The calf was out of the womb and into the world by 10: 25 a.m.

Typically, giraffes at the zoo give birth privately, but staff quickly recognized that Chriss would need to deliver outside, in front of zoo guests.

Giraffe calves are born standing nearly 6-feet tall and weigh around 150-175 pounds.

Staff said the calf stood on her own around 11:30 a.m. and is already exploring the world around her.

While the calf hasn’t been named yet, guests can share their suggestions in the comments on the zoo’s social media posts.