News and Stories

And…one lucky Zoo supporter will win the opportunity to name the baby!

CINCINNATI, OH (October 14, 2026) – The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden announced today that, for the first time in the Zoo’s history, it will be livestreaming an animal birth. Starting now, viewers around the world can watch Tessa (inside and outside) as she prepares to welcome her fifth calf and share in the anticipation of the Zoos’ newest arrival. The indoor camera will give viewers a front seat view of the actual birth*!”

Photos | Inside Stall Livestream | Outside Livestream

“Welcoming a new giraffe calf is an exciting occasion and being able to share this experience with our community, and beyond, in real time makes it even more special,” said Cincinnati Zoo director, Dave Jenike. “This livestream will give people a rare opportunity to experience the wonder of a giraffe birth while learning more about the importance of protecting giraffes in the wild.”

In addition to giving the whole world access to birth watch, the Zoo has volunteer observers paying close attention at night. Volunteers Dave and Linda Stentz explain what they’re looking for in these videos. “First thing you’re looking for is Tessa sticking her tail straight out.  Next will be hooves sticking out,” said Dave Stentz.

The Zoo has a long history of sharing important moments with our friends and followers.  In 2012, it was the first Zoo to live tweet a giraffe birth (Tessa was the mom). And in 2017, the Zoo community was in on every step of Fiona’s journey from premature birth to thriving hippo!

“Our mission is to inspire everyone with wildlife, and we believe that inviting our global community to share big moments like these brings them close enough to care,” said Jenike.

One lucky member of the Zoo community will get to name the baby!  A special giraffe ADOPT opportunity will kick off on the Zoo’s website after the baby is born.  All who ADOPT the baby will be eligible to win the naming rights!**  Through the ADOPT program, animal lovers have a meaningful way to support the care of giraffes and contribute to giraffe conservation efforts. The Zoo will share a link to the special ADOPT page on its social channels. Fans are encouraged to follow the Zoo’s official channels for baby announcements and updates.

In 2018, giraffes were listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Giraffe populations are suffering from habitat loss, trophy hunting, illegal poaching and war-stricken habitat. Since 2014, the Cincinnati Zoo has proudly partnered with the Wild Nature Institute to protect giraffes and other wildlife in East Africa.

The Zoo opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. (Jack O’Lantern Glow is after hours). Members get Early Entry and are welcome to enter the Zoo at 9 a.m. Download the mobile app featuring a GPS-enabled digital map that will take you right to Tessa and the rest of the giraffe tower in Giraffe Ridge!

*Cameras may be turned off at the discretion of the giraffe team and animal care staff.

** Naming rules will be posted on the special ADOPT page.