Juma Progress Report

"I know everyone is getting a lot of questions from visitors and those in the community about the giraffe calf so I wanted to give everyone an update. 

"All is going quite well with Juma.  Her mother Jamili is doing a fine job as a first time mother.  All last week Jamili and Juma had visual and tactile access to the other members of the giraffe herd.  All were very interested in the newest addition and nuzzled and licked her over and through the fence.  Yesterday we introduced Juma to our male Turbo and female Leia.  These introductions took place in our barn and paddock areas.  All interactions amongst these giraffe have been positive and keepers are very encouraged by Juma’s progress.

"Juma, Jamili, Turbo and Leia will continue to remain off exhibit for the time being to continue the introduction process.   No time frame yet for getting Juma on exhibit, but we hope to have her out in the next couple of weeks.  Juma’s safety is our first priority and we want to make sure she is behaving appropriately with the other giraffe, not getting caught under foot, and is paying close attention to her mother."

Thanks!

Jenn

Jennifer Ireland

Animal Management Supervisor

North Carolina Zoological Park