On March 27, 2025, the Maryland Zoo got a towering surprise — a baby giraffe born unexpectedly to one of its newest residents. The calf’s mother, Kipepeo (nicknamed “Kipi”), had arrived from a Texas zoo just last year. Because giraffes have a long gestation period — about 450 days — and can mask their pregnancies well, Kipi’s condition went undetected.
It wasn’t until keepers noticed behavioral changes that they suspected something was up. By the time veterinary staff confirmed the birth, the calf was already standing tall and healthy.
Meet Titali: The Butterfly Baby Giraffe
After the calf’s birth, the zoo launched a donor-led naming campaign. Supporters who gave $100 or more were allowed to vote on the calf’s name. The winning choice? Titali, which means “butterfly” in Bulu, a language spoken in southern Cameroon. The name fits both the calf’s graceful nature and her mother’s name, which also means butterfly — in Swahili.
The campaign wasn’t just a fun community event; it raised vital funds for the zoo’s conservation and animal care programs.
Adjusting to Zoo Life
Titali is currently in a quiet indoor enclosure, gradually being introduced to her new surroundings. So far, she’s had a successful meet-and-greet with another female giraffe, Kesi. Zookeepers say Titali is cautious but curious — a good sign for such a young animal.
Her official public debut is still being scheduled, and zoo officials say it will depend on how comfortable and confident she becomes in her new environment. In the meantime, visitors can still glimpse the zoo’s male giraffe in the outdoor yard.
Why Giraffe Births Matter
Reticulated giraffes, like Titali, are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and poaching across their native African range. Breeding programs in accredited zoos like Maryland’s play a vital role in conservation. Each successful birth is a win for the zoo and global efforts to keep the species alive.
According to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the global giraffe population has declined by 40% over the past three decades. Captive breeding programs provide both genetic diversity and educational opportunities for the public to learn more about these gentle giants.
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