In a bid to support a two-week-old giraffe calf, Marwell Wildlife is urging supporters for donations.

The young, six-foot-tall giraffe is presently doing well after a challenging beginning, having attracted many guests in the zoo's giraffe house.

It was born to Ruby and Mburo on August 21. Female giraffes experience a 15-month pregnancy, with new borns weighing between 7.5 and 11 stone.

To encourage the calf to breathe, falling from a standing birth stimulates them similarly to newborn babies being rubbed by doctors or midwives.

Zookeepers noticed Ruby's pregnancy signs a year ago, with her secret kept closely guarded until after the birth, when she was allowed time to bond with her calf.

The father Mburo, a visitor favourite due to his heart-shaped mark, is currently separated from his family as the calf adapts to his surroundings.

He'll rejoin the group later when a family reunites.

The young calf also seems to bear a heart-shaped mark, which may change over time.

Zoo keepers intend to use the donations to buy new weighing scales, plant more food, and acquire new equipment to assist in giraffe care.

Supporters can donate gifts to the Marwell animal family online at the dedicated JustGiving page.