DETROIT, Mich. (WILX) - The Detroit Zoo is celebrating the arrival of a newborn giraffe, welcomed early Monday morning.

Zara, a 7-year-old giraffe, gave birth to a healthy female calf around 2:30 a.m. on Nov. 23.

According to zoo officials, the baby is already standing steadily and nursing well.

The calf’s father, 17-year-old Jabari, has lived at the Detroit Zoo since 2008 and is part of a close-knit herd that includes females Zara and Kivuli, along with male Mpenzi.

To allow Zara and her newborn time to bond, the giraffe building will be temporarily closed to the public.

Zoo staff will determine when to introduce the calf to visitors based on Zara’s comfort level.

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