Giraffe and Newborn Calf

£4,950£9,750

Masai Mara, 2014

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In the plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya one gloomy mid-morning in July, I found a Giraffe who had just given birth. The calf was still lying on the ground completely wet, with its mother licking it repeatedly to comfort it and clean it up from the remains of placenta. Right after birth the baby began to try to stand up on wobbly legs. It would be up for a few seconds and then down again. As with most species on the African savannah, standing up as soon as possible is crucial to reduce risks of predation. Giraffe calves in particular, are often hunted after birth by Lions and Hyenas. Not even ten minutes after birth the calf was steadily on its four feet. The mother gently directed the baby as it tried to find her breasts. It was amazing to see the mother getting slowly close to me to browse on some low bushes, accompanied by her newborn. I laid on the floor of my car to take this and other low angle images. This photograph is the one I vastly prefer as it portrays the sense of protection and vulnerability of the baby. Soon the baby managed to nurse, another new life had begun on the African savannah.

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