Two baby giraffes make their first appearance at West Midlands Safari Park

Namara was born last October and Olive is just two-months old.

Author: Amelia SalmonsPublished 12th Mar 2026
Last updated 12th Mar 2026

Two baby northern giraffes at West Midlands Safari Park have taken their first steps outside the giraffe house and onto the Safari Drive for the first time.

Namara was born last October and Olive is just two-months old. West Midlands Safari Park said it was big sister Emali that gave them a nudge of encouragement with their nose.

Head Keeper of Ungulates, Lisa Watkins, said, “We are delighted that Namara and Olive have taken their first steps onto the safari, and have met some of our guests.

"Over the last few months, both have been introduced to all members of the herd including dad, Rufus, in the comfort of the giraffe house.

"This has gone brilliantly, so the final step was to introduce them to the great outdoors, where they will spend most of their time with the herd and meeting their neighbours, including white rhino, Grevy’s zebra and Congo buffalo.

“Namara was a bit cautious and unsure of her new surroundings to begin with but soon settled down.

"In contrast, on Olive’s first day out, she had the ‘zoomies’ and was excited to explore all areas with confidence. The calves’ mothers, Arusha and Akacia, have been exemplary - guiding, protecting and gently encouraging the babies to explore.

"A beautiful reminder this Mother’s Day that a mother’s love is the first safe step into the world. They will definitely be getting some extra treats and love on Sunday.”

Northern giraffes are currently listed as ‘vulnerable’ to extinction, due to threats such as habitat loss, poaching and climate change. West Midlands Safari Park said every birth was hugely important for the species.

They said they hope the calves will eventually grow up and go on to other wildlife parks to have calves of their own and help safeguard the species.

Guests can see the calves, with the rest of the herd on the Safari Drive, the African Walking Trail, or the Giraffe Safari Lodges.

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