It is believed to be the only one in the world.

A rare, spotless giraffe, believed to be the only one in the world, has been born at a zoo in Tennessee.

The female giraffe was born on 31 July at Bright's Zoo and is a uniform brown colour, rather than the recognisable spotted pattern.

The zoo takes an active part in the preservation of giraffes, which are an endangered species, by donating to Save Giraffes now and working with the species in Africa.

They also have their own breeding programme, which aims to contribute to the genetic diversity and survival of the species.

The giraffe is already 6ft tall, and is being cared for by its mother and the zookeepers. It is able to be viewed at Bright's Zoo in Limestone, Tennessee.

Tony Bright, founder of Bright's Zoo, said: “The international coverage of our patternless baby giraffe has created a much-needed spotlight on giraffe conservation.

“Wild populations are silently slipping into extinction, with 40 per cent of the wild giraffe population lost in just the last 3 decades,”

Research from Professor Ian Taylor, of the University of Melbourne, say that a giraffe's spotted pattern is used for camouflage as well as thermoregulation.

Each spot has its own central artery, which is part of a unique vascular layout which enables them to expel or retain heat as needed.

The zoo is now hosting a contest to name the giraffe on their Facebook page, with the poll currently narrowed down to four names:

Kipekee- meaning 'unique'
Firyali- meaning 'unusual' or 'extraordinary'
Shakiri- meaning 'she is most beautiful'
Jamella- meaning 'one of great beauty'

The winning name is due to be selected on Labor Day (Monday, 4 September).

Image (C) Bright's Zoo