MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Coming in at 6 ft. tall, 150 lbs. is Memphis Zoo’s new rookie, Fitz.
The Memphis Zoo’s new giraffe was born on Tuesday, April 2, which also happens to be his dad Niklas’ birthday.
Zoo officials said Fitz's name is perfect because it means 'son of,' and this is the tenth calf for his dad, Nik, and the fourth calf for his mom, Wendy.
Zookeepers said this calf’s birth is very significant and is part of a Species Survival Plan. Species Survival Plans manage the breeding of a species to maintain a healthy and self-sustaining population that is both genetically diverse and demographically stable.
When you visit the Veldt, you can see Fitz exploring and playing close to his mom, and if the weather is nice, Fitz will be out on exhibit first thing in the morning and be out for a few hours each day, according to officials.