The LA Zoo announced this week that it is "extra thankful" this holiday season for the birth of a female giraffe.
The unnamed calf, who weighs around 130 pounds and stands just under six feet tall, was born on Nov. 9 at the LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
The healthy, female Masai giraffe was born to Hasina and Phillip, according to zoo officials. This is 8-year-old Hasina's third baby and Phillip's first offspring. The two were paired together through a Species Survival Program.
We're so thankful for the healthy female Masai giraffe calf that was born at the L.A. Zoo on November 9 to parents Hasina and Phillip. pic.twitter.com/rjQHqfTeif — Los Angeles Zoo (@LAZoo) November 22, 2016
All giraffe populations in Africa are declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal hunting and disease, an LA Zoo news release stated.
Josh Sisk, Curator of Mammals at the LA Zoo, described the birth of the female giraffe as "an example of the hard work and dedication zoos have committed to the conservation of Masai giraffe."
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Masai giraffes can grow up to 17 feet tall and weigh more than two tons, zoo officials said.
He added that breeding programs such as SSP "ensure future generations are able to personally experience these magnificent animals."
The female calf can be seen with the rest of the giraffe herd on exhibit daily, weather permitting.
