Columbus Zoo reveals name of new baby giraffe

Columbus Zoo reveals the name of its newest giraffe calf, a milestone that follows the birth of Jasper on March 10. The zoo announced the baby giraffe will be called Jasper after receiving more than 7,000 votes in an online naming poll, edging out options including BJ St. Pierre, Patches, and Tim. The name was inspired by the natural patterns of the gemstone jasper that can resemble giraffe markings, the zoo said. Jasper is the first calf of Zuri, a 15-year-old giraffe, and the 23rd surviving calf born at the facility. Jasper’s father, Bobbie, arrived from Houston Zoo in 2023 and is 6 years old. The announcement also noted Zuri previously produced two male calves—Ralph (born in 2021) and Charlie (born in 2022)—which remain at the zoo.