Press Article: Franklin Park Zoo Welcomes New Giraffe Calf Amid Health Concerns
Boston, MA – The Franklin Park Zoo recently celebrated the arrival of a Masai giraffe calf, born on August 7, but the newborn’s journey has been challenging. Weighing in at 167 pounds, the unnamed calf was delivered by 9-year-old mother, Amari, who experienced a typical pregnancy.
Despite appearing healthy post-birth and being able to stand, complications arose as the calf was unable to nurse from Amari within the critical first 24 hours. Dr. Brianne Phillips, associate veterinarian at Zoo New England, emphasized the importance of bonding and colostrum intake for the calf’s immune system: “Without these antibodies, the calf’s immune system may not develop properly.”
Zoo officials attempted to bottle-feed the calf and, following a routine exam revealing that it had not nursed, provided tube feeding with vital colostrum and a plasma infusion. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful, leading to the decision to transport the calf to the Hospital for Large Animals at Tufts University for specialized care.
Currently, the calf is receiving IV fluids and nutritional support, but has developed diarrhea and mild pneumonia, necessitating antibiotic treatment. While the prognosis remains “guarded,” there was some progress as the calf managed to drink approximately 20 ounces from a bottle.
Amari is under close observation at the zoo, behaving normally and receiving attentive care from her team, while guests can still see the calf’s father, Chad, in the Giraffe Savannah habitat.
Zoo New England continues to monitor the situation closely, hoping for a successful outcome for the vulnerable species.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
