Giraffe Giving Birth On Live Cam In Labor? Calf Sticking Out, Zookeepers Report

Millions glued to the live stream showing April the giraffe giving birth on live cam are now hopeful that the animal may soon go into labor after the zoo reported the calf is sticking out. In its evening update Sunday, the Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, New York, said it is looking forward to "the arrival of our long awaited calf."

"Keeper report is 'holy smokes' baby is sticking out. It is very evident in visual observations that the calf is moving up and sticking out! All are happy with progress, we are not in labor at this time," the zoo said, just a day after it "noticed her belly was very low and egg shaped."

Early Sunday, the zoo said: "Keepers have noted a calming down of the calf and April carrying everything a bit towards the rear."

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While April's labor has been delayed for weeks, the zoo said her "appetite remains strong" and she is in a good health condition.

The giraffe, who is 15 years old, became an internet sensation in February after the zoo set up a live stream for people to watch her giving birth to her calf. The live stream has around 80,000 people watching at most times. More than 800,000 people follow the park's Facebook page, where keepers send out daily updates on the giraffe.

April is more than 15 months pregnant and was most expected to give birth days ago, but despite showing signs of giving birth, she is yet to go into "active labor."

Last week, April’s stomach swelled and there were “significant baby kicks from within,” the zoo said, adding: “Allysa [head giraffe keeper at the zoo] reports the calf has mastered karate! She has never felt or seen more activity within. April is also eating everything in sight.”

April has had three calves before and this is her first calf with her mate Oliver, who is now 5 years old. When the calf is born, there will be a vote to determine his or her name. Watch the live stream of April giving birth here.