The Gist: A one-of-a-kind giraffe was born at Brights Zoo in Limestone, Tennessee, showcasing a unique solid brown coloration that’s believed to be the only one of its kind in the world.
What Happened? On July 31, Brights Zoo in Limestone witnessed the birth of an exceptional giraffe. Instead of the typical spotted pattern, this giraffe was born solid brown, a feature that has left experts and zoo professionals intrigued. The last time a similar occurrence was noted was in Japan during the 1970s.
Why It Matters: Zoo professionals, including Brights Zoo director David Bright, believe this unique birth can shine a spotlight on the importance of giraffe conservation. The rarity of this birth emphasizes the significance of preserving genetic diversity within giraffe populations. Unfortunately, wild giraffes have seen a dramatic decline, with a shocking 40% reduction in the past 30 years, according to Tony Bright, the founder of Brights Zoo.
In captivity, this giraffe calf is safe, but in the wild, her lack of camouflage could put her at risk, as giraffes use their spots to blend into their surroundings.
What’s Next? The zoo is engaging the public to be part of this giraffe’s journey. Four names have been shortlisted for the calf, all celebrating her beauty and uniqueness. They are:
- Kipekee (meaning Unique)
- Firyali (meaning Unusual or Extraordinary)
- Shakiri (meaning She is most beautiful)
- Jamella (meaning One of great beauty)
The naming process will take place over the next two weeks, with potential voters invited to the zoo’s Facebook page to cast their vote.
