Abilene Zoo Welcomes New Baby Giraffe in Time for Giraffe Day

Jamie and Congo, the beloved giraffes at Abilene Zoological Gardens, have joyfully welcomed a new member to their family. On Saturday, May 18th, 2024, they celebrated the birth of a healthy baby girl, who will soon be named by one of the zoo's donors at this year's Jubilation Gala. The chosen name will be announced on the Abilene Zoo’s social media platforms.

This arrival is perfectly timed with the zoo's celebration of National World Giraffe Day on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024. Proud parents Jamie and Congo are thriving. Congo, easily recognized by his darker markings and impressive 16-foot height, will turn nine years old on June 22nd, while Jamie will celebrate her 13th birthday in July.

Jamie, an experienced mother, is nurturing her newborn, encouraging her to explore their surroundings. Congo, the proud papa, is often seen strutting around the zoo. The zookeepers commend Jamie’s mothering skills, noting that she has successfully raised four babies, three of them with Congo.

The zoo staff and the Zoological Society emphasize the importance of giraffe conservation, especially since there are only 117,000 giraffes left in the wild. This new birth brings hope following the loss of young McKenna, another of Jamie and Congo's offspring, who passed away in April at just one year and nine months old.

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The new baby giraffe will make her public debut on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, coinciding with the start of the zoo’s Rock and Roar mornings, beginning at 8 a.m. Join us at the Abilene Zoological Gardens for a day of joy and celebration. Hope to see you there!