The Tulsa Zoo is proud of its latest addition, a Giraffe calf born on July 22. Mom, Lexi, and dad, Hekaya, welcomed the healthy male calf.

“The calf was active immediately, and within two hours stood and began nursing, all of which are excellent signs in such a short time period," says Zoological Curator-Mammals, Jordan Piha.

“The labor, birth and hours that followed were monitored by animal care and health staff”, Piha shared. “Keepers remained on-grounds overnight to monitor the new mother and calf, a standard practice with mammal births at the zoo.”

Photo Credits: Associate Veterinarian Dr. Jen Kilburn, DVM / Tulsa Zoo

The Tulsa Zoo first announced the pregnancy on World Giraffe Day, June 21. At that time, the Zoo also announced completion of a million-dollar Giraffe barn renovation. The Osage Casino Hotel Giraffe Barn provides more than double the indoor space, improved facilities for staff to manage a multigenerational herd, and year-round viewing for guests.

The Tulsa Zoo temporarily closed access to the barn’s new public viewing area to give Lexi and her calf privacy for bonding. Hekaya and herd mate, Pili, a nine-year-old female, will be able to examine the new calf from the main yard. This temporary separation allows time for the calf to grow and learn to maneuver a smaller space before moving to the larger habitat with the adults, Piha says.

The young calf was recently given the name Ohe (pronounced o-He), which means, "to win". The Zoo also recently reported that their little “winner”, Ohe, is happily exploring his new world, letting the herd groom him through the fence line.

More great pics, below the fold!