Seneca Park Zoo Giraffe Diagnosed with Cancer Gives Birth to Calf
Kipenzi gave birth on Tuesday after being diagnosed with cancer over the summer
Seneca Park Zoo’s 6-year-old Masai giraffe, who was diagnosed with cancer over the summer, has given birth to a calf.
In a press release shared on the zoo’s website and Facebook page, officials revealed that Kipenzi gave birth on Tuesday. The gender of the offspring is currently unknown.
“The calf appears to be nursing well, is walking normally, and is energetic. We will perform the full 'new calf' evaluation once mom and calf have had some time to bond,” Dr. Chris McKinney, the zoo's veterinarian, said in the statement.
The vet added, “It is important to remember that these first weeks are a delicate time for the calf so we will be monitoring baby and mom closely.”
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In November, the New York zoo announced Kipenzi’s pregnancy, with Dr. McKinney revealing that the giraffe was undergoing ultrasounds and being trained for medical procedures.
Seneca Park Zoo confirmed on Tuesday that the Animals of the Savanna building will be closed “for the next few days so that Kipenzi and her calf may continue to bond.” Additionally, it has another Masai giraffe, called Iggy, who is pregnant and in her delivery window.
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“As always, the Animal Care Team and zoo staff are providing comprehensive care for the new calf.” Zoo Director Steve Lacy said, per the statement. “We can determine the sex of the new calf once we are able to get a closer look at the baby.”
Kipenzi’s calf news comes after she was diagnosed with cancer over the summer after a growth on her jaw was discovered, according to a press release in August. She then underwent a biopsy, which tested positive for cancer.
"Guests to the Animals of the Savanna habitats are now noticing the change in the shape of Kipenzi's facial structure," Lacy said in a statement in November.
The giraffe then received treatment that "stimulates the giraffe's own immune system to attack the tumor,” according to Dr. McKinney. The zoo revealed that this was the first time the treatment was being used for a giraffe.
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