Updated: Second baby giraffe born at Santa Barbara Zoo comes outside
The newest face at the Santa Barbara Zoo, “Sunshine” the baby giraffe, came outside into an exhibit today.
She was born Sunday afternoon.
Sunshine weighs 133 pounds and stands six feet tall.
She joins Dane who was born 12 days ago.
“This morning’s introductions between the two pairs of mothers and calves went well,” reports Sheri Horiszny, Director of Animal Programs, “so all four will be in the giraffe yard together.”
The sire of both calves, Michael, will be in the exhibit, but separated from the others by a temporary fence. “This is standard giraffe management after new births,” adds Horiszny. “The calves need to get a little bigger before they meet their giant dad.”
“Though she looks quite dainty, she is quite a fighter,” adds Horiszny.
One of the visitors who was first to see Sunshine, Antara Hunter said, “boy she’s so sturdy on her feet for being two days old.”
Both were romping around in the exhibit and at times, nuzzling each other.
“They’ll be cute for a long time so get in on the front end and watch them evolve over time,” said Horiszny.
Dane, Sunshine, and the Zoo’s other giraffes were named by the Dreier family, Zoo sponsors.
