PREVIEW

Two baby northern giraffes have taken their first tentative steps into the outside world after venturing out of their zoo enclosure for the very first time.

Namara, born on October 8 last year, and two-month-old Olive - born January 20 at West Midlands Safari Park - were finally able to explore their outdoor safari habitat as the weather turned warmer and drier.

The pair cautiously stepped out into the open under the watchful eyes of their mums, Akacia and Arusha, who stayed close by while allowing other members of the herd to welcome the newcomers.

Big sister Emali - who shares the same dad as both calves - was among the first to greet them, giving the youngsters an encouraging nudge with her nose.

They were also introduced to one of the herd’s elders, Henry, who gave the pair a friendly lick as they took in their new surroundings.

Head Keeper of Ungulates Lisa Watkins said staff were thrilled to see the calves exploring the safari for the first time.

She said: “We are delighted that Namara and Olive have taken their first steps onto the safari and have met some of our guests.

“Over the last few months both have been introduced to all members of the herd, including dad Rufus, in the comfort of the giraffe house.

“This has gone brilliantly, so the final step was introducing them to the great outdoors, where they will spend most of their time with the herd and meeting their neighbours, including white rhino, Grevy’s zebra and Congo buffalo.”

Watkins said the two youngsters reacted very differently to their big debut.

She said: “Namara was a bit cautious and unsure of her new surroundings to begin with but soon settled down.

“In contrast, on Olive’s first day out she had the ‘zoomies’ and was excited to explore all areas with confidence.

“The calves’ mothers, Arusha and Akacia, have been exemplary – guiding, protecting and gently encouraging the babies to explore.

“A beautiful reminder this Mother’s Day that a mother’s love is the first safe step into the world. They will definitely be getting some extra treats and love on Sunday.”

The births are also an important boost for the giraffe EEP (EAZA Ex-situ Programme), which coordinates breeding efforts between zoos and wildlife parks across Europe to help conserve endangered species.

Northern giraffes are currently listed as vulnerable to extinction due to threats including habitat loss, poaching and climate change.

Every birth therefore represents an important step in helping secure the species’ future.

All calves born at the park in recent years share the same father - 15-year-old Rufus.

Namara and Olive also have several older brothers, including Kris, Kingsley and Mtembei, making them the first female calves born at the park since their sister Emali in 2016.

The pair will spend their early years growing up with the herd at the park, where keepers will continue to monitor their development.

In the future it is hoped they will move to other wildlife parks, where they can have calves of their own and continue the conservation work of the programme.