Want a chance to name Sacramento Zoo’s baby giraffe? Here’s what you need to know

The Sacramento Zoo is hosting an online auction for the chance to name the newest baby giraffe.

Funds raised from the auction will go toward the zoo’s new park slated to be built in Elk Grove.

Those interested in placing bids can visit the zoo’s auction page, which is available on their main website. The bidding starts at $5,000 and participants will need to register and provide a cellphone number before bidding.

The highest bid will pick the name for the giraffe calf. Anyone donating $10 or more will receive a giraffe decal and be entered to win a chance to meet the calf and her mother, Shani.

The female calf was born Jan. 22. Prior to the delivery, the zoo had expressed doubt as to whether her mother was pregnant.

The baby has been doing well, the zoo said in a statement, and has been spending much of her time in the warm giraffe barn with her mother.

Zoo officials also said that animal care staff must approve the selected name prior to the official naming.

This story was originally published February 10, 2023 at 11:52 AM.