A rare behind-the-scenes moment unfolded at West Midlands Safari Park as a giraffe gave birth to the Park’s first baby of 2026, with keepers there to witness it all.

A baby Northern giraffe was born on Tuesday 20 January, following a 15-month long pregnancy, for mum, 14-year-old Arusha.

Keepers had suspected that the birth was imminent after monitoring Arusha overnight for a few days on CCTV, then on their Tuesday morning checks, they saw signs of labour and witnessed her waters break.

They then quietly went about their normal duties within the giraffe house, keeping an eye on CCTV to monitor Arusha’s progress without disturbing her.

Then at 11:04am, keepers were lucky enough to witness the six-foot youngster make its appearance into the world, landing on the soft, sanded floor the keepers had prepared especially for this moment.

The calf managed to stand and take its wobbly first steps just 40 minutes later and had its first suckle at just an hour old.

The giraffe calf is the latest success for the giraffe EEP (EAZA Ex-situ Programme) which supports collaborative breeding efforts between European zoos and wildlife parks to conserve endangered species.

Northern giraffes are currently listed as ‘vulnerable’ to extinction, due to threats such as habitat loss, poaching and climate change, so every birth is hugely important for the species.

The new calf will have a play mate to grow up with, as its half-sibling, Namara, is just three months older, following her birth in October 2025.

Both calves share the same dad, 15-year-old Rufus and the new baby has several older siblings, including brothers Kingsley and Mtembei and half-siblings, Emali and Kris.

The next steps for the calf will be a quick health check from the Park’s veterinary team, who will determine the baby’s sex, so a name can be chosen.

All animals born at the Park this year, will have names beginning with the letter, ‘O’, so keepers will produce a shortlist of names, and then a favourite will be chosen.

In the coming months (weather dependent), guests may be able to see the calf, with the rest of the herd on the Safari Drive, the African Walking Trail, or the Giraffe Safari Lodges, of which four new lodges are opening next month, on 13 February 2026.

West Midlands Safari Park is open on selected dates during the winter season and guests can book in advance online for the best prices, which also includes a free return visit. More information is available on the Park’s website: wmsp.co.uk