Dallas Zoo Baby Giraffe Named “Kipenzi”

Name voted on by the public

The giraffe born at the Dallas Zoo as people around the world watched online has been named.

The Dallas Zoo said Friday that the name Kipenzi --  pronounced kih-PEHN'-zee -- has been chosen for the female calf born April 10. It means "loved one" in Swahili.

The zoo announced the name of Katie the giraffe's calf after a week of voting by the public.

The giraffe calf came into the world on April 10 as millions watched on smart phones and tablets.

Zookeepers offered up three choices. The other two possibilities were: Adia, meaning "a gift," and Kanzi meaning "a treasure."

Millions watched her birth via a live video feed from the cable television show "Animal Planet." The cameras will remain live till Monday morning.

The zoo says Kipenzi, who stands more than 6 feet tall, is expected to start appearing outdoors early next week.

In case anyone misses the announcement live, or NBCDFW.com's sharing of the big news, the Dallas skyline will let you know the name.

The Zoo says, thanks to a generous friend, all donations made in Kip's honor will be matched up to $25,000 and every dime will go to conservation efforts.

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Copyright AP - Associated Press
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