Oakland Zoo Newborn Giraffe Stretching Out In New Digs
OAKLAND (CBS SF) - The Oakland Zoo has unveiled their newborn giraffe along with its upgraded enclosure, a 1,500 sq. ft. barn that will now house nine giraffes.
Curators said the giraffes simply outgrew their old digs and buoyed by fundraising efforts that brought in $400,000, the Zoo was able to complete construction on the new barn, which stands 25 ft. high and includes skylights, too. More importantly, they say, the new barn will protect the animals overnight, and keep them warn during the colder months - something that's especially important for the youngest and oldest members of the Zoo's giraffe population.
"They'll lay down in big, soft beds, they'll hang out with their herd mates, their friends, have snacks, they'll use it as a shelter, use it as a safe place, a quiet place," explained main giraffe keeper Amy Phelps. "They go out on exhibit every day and visit with the public and meet the guests and they can come into the barn at night in order to have safe, quiet private time."
KCBS' Bob Melrose Reports:
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