04/08/2008 02:24:00

Marwell Zoo in Bishops Waltham is now celebrating the birth of a second giraffe calf within one month. The first calf - Christa - was born to Matilda on 14th of May and was followed by Tiye, who arrived on 6th June. A spokesperson confirmed that Tiye and her mother, Mary, are doing well.

The arrival of the calves was long-anticipated, as giraffes are pregnant for around fifteen months. However, both giraffes were born with no complications, making their appearance well worth the wait. Zookeepers are now keeping a close eye on both calves and their mothers, ensuring they stay healthy.

Tiye - who is already six feet tall - is named after the Nubian queen of Kemet, who was regarded as one of the most influential Queens ever to rule Ancient Egypt. Christa is named after her father, Christopher, who sadly died last year.

Ian Goodwin, head keeper for the giraffes, told BBC News: "We are thrilled that Christa and Tiye are doing so well.

"Christa is full of energy and Tiye is looking every inch like her mum and dad as she has inherited their attractive dark markings."

He added that both Matilda and Mary have been successful mothers, with Christa being Matilda's fifth calf. Matilda's youngest male calf, Taharqua, and Mary's older calf, JaJa, also live with the family and can be seen amongst the herd of giraffes at the popular zoo, which is in Hampshire, the South East of England.

The expansion of the giraffe family in Hampshire follows similar UK wildlife news: Bristol Zoo Gardens recently submitted plans for a wildlife reserve to be built in the city's northern outskirts.