SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Utah’s Hogle Zoo announced Thursday morning their 8-year-old giraffe, Minka, is expecting her first calf in February.
The giraffe’s 15-month pregnancy is coming to a close next month. The zoo confirmed animal care and health teams are closely monitoring her progress.
Minka first arrived at Hogle Zoo in 2019 on a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). Minka’s breeding partner, Ja, 5, came to the zoo in 2022 also on a breeding recommendation. This will be Ja’s second calf. The first baby, Nguvu, was born to mother giraffe, Stephanie, in February 2025.
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During the winter, giraffes at the zoo spend a majority of their time inside the barn. The zoo said, “Access to outdoor spaces is always based on their comfort and choice.” The giraffes may brave the brisk winter air on days warmer than 50 degrees, otherwise guests may not always see giraffes during the winter months.
Giraffe conservation at Hogle Zoo
Giraffes face habitat loss, human population growth, and poaching dangers in the wild. Giraffe herds are found in Africa’s savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. The herd numbers range from 2 to 70 individuals…