On July 17, 2010, the Zoo celebrated the birth of a new baby giraffe named Abigail; born to mother, Stella and father, Gus. Like all mother giraffes, Stella gave birth while standing, welcoming baby Abigail with a six foot drop to the ground. Almost immediately after birth, a giraffe calf will begin to stand on its own legs and it is typically up and walking in about an hour. Despite a newborn calf’s impressive abilities, giraffes do not reach full height until at least 2 or 3 years after birth. As baby Abigail celebrates her 1st birthday, she is still significantly smaller than her mother and especially her father! Come visit Abigail on her special day and watch the loving interactions between our happy giraffe family.