Imara: Toronto Zoo’s Newest Star Has a Name!
Standing tall at nearly seven feet, the Toronto Zoo’s newest resident now has a name, thanks to the incredible participation of thousands of animal lovers! After a three-week voting period between March 10th and 23rd, the community has spoken, and the female giraffe calf born on February 26th is officially named Imara.
Born at an impressive six feet four inches, the little one was affectionately known as “Baby Long Neck” while the public deliberated between five beautiful Swahili names suggested by the Kenyan Honorary Consulate in Toronto. With a resounding 23,000 votes, Imara emerged as the clear winner.
A Name with Meaning
“There’s something deeply hopeful about what our community has chosen to name this calf,” shared Toronto Zoo CEO Dolf DeJong. “She represents a symbol of strength, optimism, and resilience – not only for her endangered species but also as a reminder that hope still thrives in a world that needs it.”
The Toronto Zoo reported unprecedented engagement with the naming contest, calling it “a reflection of the love and support our community feels for the animals in our care.”
Imara’s Public Debut and Early Days
Imara made her highly anticipated public debut on March 13th, and the Zoo experienced incredible crowds throughout the March break, eager to catch a glimpse of the long-legged beauty. The Zoo expressed gratitude for visitors’ respectful behaviour, noting their calm and quiet demeanour in the giraffe house, which has been crucial for Imara’s adjustment to public attention.
“Imara continues to bond with her mother, Mstari, nursing regularly and displaying bursts of playful energy as she explores her habitat with those wonderfully gangly legs,” the Zoo stated.
You can follow Imara’s journey and see more adorable photos and videos on the Toronto Zoo’s Instagram page.
Stay tuned for more updates on Imara and other exciting happenings at the Toronto Zoo!
(Image credit: Toronto Zoo)
Related News:
- CBC Toronto News – For local Toronto news and updates.
- Toronto Star – Stay informed about the Greater Toronto Area.
