Born just six days apart, the two have made their debut out on safari at the wildlife preserve
FOLSOM, La.— Global Wildlife Center is excited to announce the arrival of two new endangered baby reticulated giraffes, Nova and Noah, who are now officially out on safari with the giraffe tower. Born just six days apart this spring, the two calves are thriving and making themselves at home alongside the herd.
The winning giraffe names were submitted by 9-year-old Wrennie Little of Mandeville and voted on by Global Wildlife Center’s social media audience. Her father, Jack Little, wrote into Global Wildlife Center’s Facebook Page and said, “…Thank you for letting people submit their suggestions. After my little girl almost lost her life a few weeks ago, she said getting a chance to just suggest a name, means a lot to her.”
“Each reticulated giraffe calf born is an important contribution to the survival of the species. Giraffes are facing a ‘Silent Extinction’ in the wild, and giraffe numbers in their home range have dropped by 30% in the past 35 years,” notes Christina Cooper, Executive Director of Global Wildlife.
The birth of the two endangered giraffe calves marks another milestone during Global Wildlife’s 35th anniversary year, and both are related to Kameel, the tower’s iconic matriarch. Kameel is notably celebrating her 33rd birthday this June and carries the distinction of being the second-oldest giraffe in North America. Interacting with the giraffe tower and Kameel’s family has become one of the most beloved parts of the guest experience at the Folsom preserve.
Nova, whose name means “new beginning and bright star,” was born Friday, March 27 to mother Sara and stood 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighed 143 pounds at birth. She is curious, playful, and energetic, as evidenced by her earliest days. Nova is frequently seen running alongside her siblings, including her older brother Pax, and has developed a habit of exploring the far reaches of her habitat. She is very brave and is already delighting guests by nibbling from Private Pinz tours.
Nova also holds a special place within the herd’s lineage. As the great-granddaughter of Kameel, she represents the fourth generation of her family at the Center. Nova’s arrival continues a legacy that has become a defining part of Global Wildlife’s story and a testament to the Center’s long-term commitment to the health and growth of its giraffe population.
Noah, born Thursday, April 2 to mom Kya, stood an impressive 6 feet 1 inch and weighed 167 pounds at birth. Where Nova leads with energy, Noah brings a calm and easygoing presence to the tower. Staff describe him as nonchalant, though that relaxed demeanor gives way to bursts of playfulness, particularly when running with Nova or when alfalfa makes an appearance at feeding time.
Noah is also easily recognized by his distinctive markings. He carries the same delicate white lines separating his spots and white-centered patterning as his mother, along with a small “bowtie” marking on the left side of his neck, which closely mirrors his brother Obi. As the grandson of Kameel, Noah’s arrival further deepens the multi-generational presence that has come to define the giraffe tower at Global Wildlife.
Now fully integrated into the herd, both Noah and Nova can be seen on safari daily as they continue to grow, interact, and find their place within the tower. Their arrival reflects the continued success of Global Wildlife’s conservation and animal care efforts.