A Nubian giraffe named Jude was born at a UK wildlife reserve just hours before England's soccer team took on Norway in a World Cup match on Saturday. The newborn giraffe is already 5ft 8in tall, just a few inches shorter than her namesake, English midfielder Jude Bellingham.
The giraffe was born at Port Lympne Reserve, where her mother, Leana, safely gave birth after a 16-month gestation. The calf's father is the reserve's resident bull giraffe, Zubani. The newborn was up on her feet within hours of birth and is continuing to grow stronger every day.
The mother and daughter are currently spending their first few weeks in the giraffe house, where experienced keepers and vets monitor them closely. The reserve's staff are giving them all the care and space they need during this delicate time.
Nubian giraffes are among the world's most threatened giraffe subspecies, making every successful birth an important contribution to the international conservation breeding programme. The birth of Jude is another positive step towards safeguarding the future of the species.
Visitors will be able to see Jude in person later this month. The reserve's managing director said the timing of Jude's arrival, coinciding with England's World Cup success, made the occasion even more memorable.
