IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Baby giraffe born at Toledo Zoo

An Ohio zoo welcomed a baby Masai giraffe this weekend. Mother and daughter are doing well, Toledo Zoo representative Andi Norman told msnbc.com.Animal care staff are monitoring the two, ensuring they continue to bond before they make their debut to the public, hopefully in about a week."Both mother and daughter are doing well, with Elvira exhibiting good maternal behavior and the calf nursing wit
Elvira, one of the Toledo Zoo's Masai giraffes, cares for her newborn calf at the The Toledo Zoo, July 23. Elvira gave birth to a female calf late Saturday after a 15-month pregnancy. The yet-unnamed calf stood nearly six feet tall and weighed about 160 pounds at birth.
Elvira, one of the Toledo Zoo's Masai giraffes, cares for her newborn calf at the The Toledo Zoo, July 23. Elvira gave birth to a female calf late Saturday after a 15-month pregnancy. The yet-unnamed calf stood nearly six feet tall and weighed about 160 pounds at birth.Toledo Zoo via AP

An Ohio zoo welcomed a baby Masai giraffe this weekend. Mother and daughter are doing well, Toledo Zoo representative Andi Norman told msnbc.com.

Animal care staff are monitoring the two, ensuring they continue to bond before they make their debut to the public, hopefully in about a week.

"Both mother and daughter are doing well, with Elvira exhibiting good maternal behavior and the calf nursing without assistance," Norman said.

As the newborn gets used to her surroundings, zookeepers will begin picking names. Soon, Elvira and her calf will be available for public viewing in the Africa! exhibit.

Masai giraffes are the tallest animals on the planet, standing an average of 16 to 18 feet when fully grown, according to the zoo. Despite their size, they can run at speeds up to 35 mph. They can be identified by their irregularly shaped spots, which are as unique and identifiable as human fingerprints.