Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo says new giraffe calf is making progress, 'hoovin' in the right direction
See video of the giraffe calf taking a bottle above
The new baby giraffe at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo is making progress.
The zoo posted on Facebook that the female calf, who was born on March 19 at Omaha's zoo, is now taking a bottle from her caretakers.
According to the zoo, it's instinct for giraffes to look under the shadow of their mother's belly to eat, so keepers are using a frog stuffy to help create that effect.
The zoo said that nutrition and vet teams are working together to ensure the calf's formula is prepped and ready to go.
After the calf was born, her mother, Zola, did not show the "expected level of maternal care toward her calf despite a normal delivery." Keepers provided the calf with "around-the-clock care."
Staff thanked the community for their thoughts and encouragement.
"Your kind thoughts and encouragement have really pulled our staff through on this journey," the zoo posted on Facebook.
They also teased that the calf's name will be announced "soon."