A towering new arrival has stepped into the world at Monarto Safari Park, with nine-year-old Giraffe Scarlett welcoming her fourth calf this week.

After what felt like a very long wait for keepers, Scarlett gave birth this week, marking another exciting milestone for the Park’s growing Giraffe herd. Because animal care staff only intervene in a pregnancy if absolutely necessary, exact due dates are often unknown. Scarlett had been showing signs that her calf was on the way for some time, with the team patiently watching and waiting for the big moment.

The healthy calf was up on its feet not long after birth – an important first step for the world’s tallest land mammals – and was soon meeting the rest of the herd and enjoying its first drinks from mum. Early signs indicate both Scarlett and her calf are doing well as they settle into the rhythm of the herd.

The new arrival has already attracted a small but enthusiastic shadow in Oti, the Park’s three-month-old Giraffe calf, who has taken a keen interest in the youngster. Giraffe calves of similar ages often gravitate towards each other, forming small crèches within the herd. These nursery groups allow calves to socialise and build confidence while remaining under the watchful eyes of their mothers.

Standing at around 1.8 metres tall at birth and weighing up to 70 kilograms, giraffe calves grow rapidly in their first year of life. In the wild, giraffes are currently listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, facing threats from habitat loss and poaching across parts of Africa. Zoos SA works collaboratively with regional breeding programs to help maintain a healthy and genetically diverse population under human care, contributing to the long-term conservation of the species.

Visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the Park’s newest long-legged addition can keep their eyes on the horizon during the popular Zu-loop bus adventure. With a bit of luck, they may spot the calf taking steady steps alongside Scarlett – with curious little Oti likely not far behind.