On December 24, 2008 at 4:55 PM, Zarafa gave birth to a bouncing baby boy. He measures about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 110 pounds. Mother and baby are doing fine. Our little Christmas Eve bundle of joy is enjoying the Sonoma Serengeti sunshine and romping around on his brand new long and lanky legs!

Travis Murray, guide and animal handler at Safari West, was there to capture the blessed event on video.  You can follow the link below to watch the video on YouTube. 

The man helping Zarafa is Dr. Benjamin, Safari West's veterinarian. Normally our giraffes give birth outside, monitored by our staff and veterinarian and unassisted unless it is necessary.  When they are outside they can walk around, which helps along the birthing process. Due to the cold weather, Zarafa was in the heated giraffe barn and Dr. Benjamin had to assist her a little bit by coaxing her to walk around, and giving the baby a little tug on the legs.