The Shanghai Zoo has a new addition to the family. Zoo keepers witnessed the birth of a 50 kilogram giraffe on Sunday night, the 13th member of the zoo's giraffe family.

"She was about 180 centimeters, and could walk almost immediately after she was born," said Cindy Pan, an official with the Shanghai Zoo. She said every newborn offspring brings a festive mood to the zoo.

According to Pan, giraffes are among the happiest animals and best breeders -- usually one each year -- at the zoo.

The new baby was born to 11-year-old Kyusu and 12-year-old Katayamaro -- both born in Japan.

Kyusu has given birth three times, the other offspring are four and two years old.

(Shanghai Daily March 2, 2004)