The Toronto Zoo’s new baby giraffe needs a name and here’s how to help

The Toronto Zoo is asking for the public’s help in naming its newest addition, a now almost four-week-old Masai giraffe.

The zoo is head over hooves for this little bundle of joy, born on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026. The cutie measures about six feet four inches and was already on her feet nearly 40 minutes after her birth.

New baby giraffe at the Toronto Zoo

“This endangered Masai giraffe calf is an incredible addition to your Toronto Zoo,” says Dolf DeJong, CEO of Your Toronto Zoo.

“We announced Mstari’s pregnancy on Mother’s Day last year, and after a 15-month pregnancy, we are thrilled to have a healthy calf in our care, raising the profile of endangered Masai giraffes and inspiring our community to learn more and stand with us as Guardians of Wild.”

Though the zoo planned on welcoming guests to meet the new Masai giraffe calf through March break, it decided to give her more time to bond with Mom out of the public eye for now.

“Each calf is a truly unique individual, and Mstari’s calf is still getting used to the world, so her needs may change from day to day,” shares the zoo on Instagram.

“Flexibility is key as we continue to emphasize the health and welfare of both Mom and baby. Thank you for your kindness, patience, and understanding as we put their comfort and well-being first during this very special time for the Masai giraffe family.”

Voting on a name 

In the meantime, the Toronto Zoo set up an online voting system where the public can help pick what to name her.

There are five options to choose from: Binti, which means daughter; Imara, for strong, firm and resilient; Neema, for grace; Nyota, meaning star; and Sanaa, meaning beauty/art.

Voting can be done online and closes on March 23, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. One entry is allowed per email.

Now get to it and be part of something wonderful.

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Karen Doradea

Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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