The cub, a female of the reticulated giraffe species, was born on 18 September at the Silesian Zoological Garden in the southern city of Chorzów, spokeswoman Daria Kroczek was quoted as saying.
This is the first giraffe birth in seven years and twentieth overall at the Silesian Zoo, she added.
“The young female measures about 180 cm. She is strong and healthy, sticking closely to her mother and showing curiosity toward her caretakers," Kroczek elaborated.
Giraffes are known for their distinctive spot patterns, which remain consistent throughout their lives.
The cub has not yet received a name. The zoo has assured it will be chosen once the caretakers have a better understanding of her character.
"It will certainly be an internationally recognisable name that won't pose potential pronunciation challenges for workers at other European zoos in the future,” Kroczek asserted.
The female will remain at the Silesian Zoo until she reaches maturity. At that point, the breeding coordinator will decide whether to transfer her to another zoo or allow her to stay in Chorzów," Kroczek explained.
Alongside the Rothschild's giraffe, the reticulated giraffe is the species most commonly seen in zoos. Its coat consists of large, polygonal, liver-colored spots outlined by a network of bright white lines.
There are approximately 8,500 individuals living in the wild, according to Wikipedia.
(mo/pm)
Source: PAP, Wikipedia
