Monarto welcomes 47th giraffe to be born at the zoo, the latest in a series of animal births

A new member of the giraffe herd has been welcomed at Monarto Zoo, taking its first tentative steps with the help of a proud and watchful mum.

Monarto Zoo keepers were delighted to see third-time mum Korongo, who has previously given birth to two male giraffes, gave birth to an adorable calf at around 9am on Wednesday.

Monarto Zoo has welcomed the newest member of its ever expanding giraffe herd.

Three-time mother Korongo gave birth to the calf, the 47th born at Monarto, yesterday morning.

Greeted by its mother with a friendly lick, the calf joined the rest of the herd, with keepers saying it is fitting in already.

Zoo keeper Matt Brewer said other giraffes and even a few curious ostriches had gathered around the newborn and its proud mother.

The newborn calf has been welcomed by Monarto’s giraffe herd.

“The little calf is doing very well and, after a few wobbly attempts, the little calf is already up on its feet and getting used to its long legs,” Mr Brewer said.

“We’re keeping a close eye on it to ensure it feeds well. Korongo has already mothered two calves before and she is proving to be an excellent mum again.

“A new birth is always an exciting time, so we are expecting a lot of visitors to come and see the baby, especially since the little one arrived in time for the school holidays which kick off in just over a week.”

The calf has joined other babies born at the zoo in the last two weeks, including a zebra foal and a new addition to the chimpanzee family.