The newest addition to the giraffe clan at Monarto Zoo took its first steps yesterday, just 30 minutes after it was born to mother Myeisha around 11am.

Myesiha went into labour around 10.30am and gave birth without complication within half an hour.

Crowds watched as the baby calf struggled to its feet and learnt to walk alongside its mother.

Giraffe Keeper Vaughan Wilson said the birth was the first in eight years for Monarto’s giraffes and the fourth calf for Myeisha.

“She’s behaved very well as a mum so far… she’s been relatively protecting,” he said.

“She’s been standing still a lot to let the calf come to her but she’s been close by at all times.”