THOUGH just days old, Dalton zoo's newest arrival already towers above some of its much older residents.

The new baby, a West African giraffe, was born overnight at South Lakes Safari Zoo.

Keepers at the attraction discovered the healthy newborn giraffe in the Africa House this morning.

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Though sticking close to mum Eloise, it is said to be doing well and is being monitored by head zoo keeper Kim Banks.

South Lakes Safari Zoo, now run by Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd, is home to the only West African giraffes in the UK.

The species is listed as critically endangered. At the latest count in 2016, there were thought to be around 400 to 450 individuals remaining in the wild.

The yet-unnamed new baby is the second to be born at Dalton's zoo in six months.

A spokesman for South Lakes Safari Zoo said: "We are very proud to have the only West African giraffes in the UK here at Safari Zoo.

"Vulnerable to extinction, the captive population of these very rare giraffes is very small and our little ark may be vital for its long term future."

READ MORE: WITH VIDEO: Say hello to Dalton zoo's newest arrival