Cincinnati Zoo Livestreams Giraffe Tessa Giving Birth for First Time in History

0 October 16, 2026 10:22

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has officially launched a live streaming camera as 20-year-old giraffe Tessa prepares to give birth to her fifth calf. Marking the first time in the zoo’s history that an animal birth is being broadcast live to the public, wildlife enthusiasts around the world can tune in via the zoo’s YouTube channel to follow the progress of this landmark event. The live stream covers both indoor birthing stalls and outdoor habitats, giving viewers an intimate look at the maternal process.

Tessa, who was bred with a male giraffe named Zeke, is nearing the end of her 13- to 15-month gestation period. Animal care experts at the zoo noted that this will likely be Tessa’s final calf, as her previous four births were all successful and well-managed. To ensure maximum safety during delivery, the care team has prepared a padded indoor stall filled with thick layers of dirt and substrate to cushion the newborn calf’s six-foot drop at birth.

While the care staff monitors Tessa around the clock for labor signs, such as tail position changes or visible hooves, they emphasize that the live stream may be temporarily paused if medical intervention becomes necessary. Alongside the live broadcast, the zoo is offering supporters a chance to participate in an adoption campaign, which enters donors into a naming lottery for the newborn once it arrives safely.

Channel: USA Today