Zoo Records Birth Of Spotless Giraffe That Could Possibly Be The ‘Only Solid-Colored’ Giraffe In The World

Aug 23, 2023

While it can be termed an uncommon occurrence, the birth of unique animal breeds is something that has been recorded occasionally. From hybrid animals to wildlife with rare conditions, the animal kingdom has its own awe-inspiring wonder. The rare opportunity to see a unique animal being born made headlines when zookeepers confirmed it among a herd of giraffes in a Limestone zoo. Although the breed is at risk of extinction, this unique birth provided a sense of hope for future generations.

One of the rarest giraffe animal sightings was recorded in August 2023 in Brights Zoo, Limestone, Tennessee. This private, family-run zoo recorded the birth of a rare patchless giraffe born on July 31, 2023. This exceptional birth of the plain giraffe gained worldwide attention since the first time a birth like this was last recorded was decades ago.

Giraffes are easily recognizable due to their long necks and patched patterns. Their distinctive patterns have a primary function: to serve as a form of disguise from other animals in the wild. Also, the skin under these patched spots carries a system of blood vessels. These blood vessels provide a kind of thermoregulation and help the giraffes release heat through the middle of each spot. 

In addition to the functions of the spots on giraffes, per NPR, researchers state that each of them possesses a unique pattern of spots that they get from their mothers. Over the years, giraffes have been faced with threats in the fragmentation of their home in Africa. They have also been threatened by illicit encroachment. Brights Zoo was elated to share the exciting news of the July 31, 2023, birth of a patchless giraffe.

The baby giraffe was solid brown, missing the usual patterned patches known to giraffes. The last record of a spotless giraffe's birth was in Tokyo in 1972.

During a discussion with People, Tony Bright, the founder of Brights Zoo, talked about the rare birth of the female calf. Tony shared: "Giraffe experts believe she is the only solid-colored reticulated giraffe living anywhere on the planet." He made it known that the world's tallest animal has roughly 25 to 30 years of lifespan. 

Tony also talked about the need for giraffe conservation. He highlighted that the unusual birth "has created a much-needed spotlight on giraffe conservation" and will probably serve as a focal point on the challenges these animals face in the world at large. He added:

"Wild populations are slightly slipping into extinction, with 40% of the wild giraffe population lost in just the last 3 decades."

Brights Zoo also gave an update on the baby giraffe, sharing that it was already 6ft tall and growing strong under the care of her mother. A picture of the unique animal was uploaded on the Zoo's official Facebook page. The management announced a public naming contest with the selected names of Swahili origin. The naming options include Kipekee, which translates to unique, Firyali - unusual or extraordinary, Shakiri - most beautiful, and Jamella - one of great beauty.”

A lot of animal lovers were quick to start voting, with most choosing Kipekee. One Facebook user wrote, "Kipekee because she is the most unique giraffe I have ever seen." Some people also voted for Shakiri and Jamella. The Tennessee Zoo announced that the votes would run until Sept. 4, 2023, when the votes would be counted and the spotless giraffe's name would be announced. 

How do you feel about seeing a rare spotless giraffe whose first appearance was last recorded decades ago? What do you think the unique giraffe should be called? Let us know, and be sure to pass this on to others.