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Newborn giraffe — a ‘miracle’ — captures hearts at Michigan zoo. See 6-foot-tall baby

A newborn giraffe was an ‘early Christmas miracle,’ according to the Michigan zoo where she was born.
A newborn giraffe was an ‘early Christmas miracle,’ according to the Michigan zoo where she was born. Screengrab from Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park on Facebook

A newborn giraffe at a zoo in Michigan arrived early — but you wouldn’t be able to tell by looking at her.

She was already 6 feet tall and about 100 pounds when she was born, Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park said on Facebook.

A photo shows the lanky newborn bracing her legs beneath her as she stands in a straw-covered enclosure.

“Well we experienced an early Christmas miracle over here at Boulder Ridge… Please join us in welcoming our new baby Giraffe to the world!” the zoo said. “Isn’t she precious?!”

The new baby was born to Ginger and is her second calf since she arrived at the zoo, Fox17 reported.

“Baby and mother are healthy … but Ginger’s milk didn’t come in so we are bottle feeding the sweet little baby,” the zoo said. “More info and details to come so stay tuned. Hmm…and also, what should we call this little giant? Suggestions welcome.”

Several people suggested names in the comments that would pair well with the name Ginger, such as “Snap,” “Cookie,” or “Spice.”

“I love the thought of Ginger and Snap!” someone said.

Some even got more specific about the type of spice, with several suggesting “Nutmeg,” “Cinnamon” or “Clove.”

Others suggested Christmas-themed names such as “Joy,” “Holly” or “Miracle.”

The zoo is about a 30-mile drive southeast from Grand Rapids.

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This story was originally published January 3, 2025 at 12:18 PM with the headline "Newborn giraffe — a ‘miracle’ — captures hearts at Michigan zoo. See 6-foot-tall baby."

Brooke Baitinger
McClatchy DC
Brooke Baitinger is a former journalist for McClatchyDC.
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