Port Lympne Reserve in Kent has welcomed its first giraffe calf in eight years, naming the newborn after England midfielder Jude Bellingham in recognition of his outstanding performances at the World Cup. The Nubian giraffe calf, named Jude, was born on Saturday, the same day England secured a semi-final spot by defeating Norway.
Birth details and conservation significance
After a 16-month gestation, mother Leana safely gave birth to Jude, who was fathered by the reserve's resident bull giraffe, Zubani. The calf was up on her feet within hours and is continuing to grow stronger every day. She currently stands at 5 ft 8 inches, slightly smaller than the English midfielder who is 6 ft 1. Mother and daughter are spending Jude's first few weeks in the giraffe house, where experienced keepers and vets monitor them closely.
Nubian giraffes are among the world's most threatened giraffe subspecies, meaning every successful birth is an important contribution to the international conservation breeding programme and another positive step towards safeguarding the future of the species.
Managing director's tribute
Tony Kelly, the park's managing director, said: 'Welcoming the first giraffe born at Port Lympne since 2018 is an incredibly special moment, not just for everyone here, but for giraffe conservation in the UK. The timing of Jude's arrival – on Saturday, when the nation was celebrating England's World Cup success – made the occasion even more memorable. These first few weeks are a delicate time for both mum and calf, so we're giving them all the care and space they need. Our keepers are with them constantly, and although it's still early days, we're delighted with how Jude is progressing, and we look forward to our guests meeting her later this month.'
Bellingham's World Cup achievements
Bellingham is the top-scoring midfielder in the tournament, having scored a total of six times so far. No midfielder has ever scored more at a World Cup. Two of these goals were in England's match against Norway last weekend, a feat which secured England's spot in the semi-finals. The real Jude Bellingham will play against Argentina for a place in the World Cup final on July 19.
