Giraffes are one of the most iconic animals in the world, and the Cincinnati Zoo is home to some of the tallest members of this species. The Masai Giraffe, also known as Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi, can be found at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden®. These gentle giants can reach heights of 13 to 17 feet and weigh between 1,210 and 4,250 pounds. They have an average lifespan of 13 years in captivity and inhabit savanna and woodland habitats in Africa. In the wild, they feed on leaves, shoots, and fruits while keeping a lookout for predators with their long necks and excellent vision.
The Cincinnati Zoo has a long history with giraffes that dates back to 1889 when it became the first zoo in the Western Hemisphere to have a giraffe born in captivity. Since then, there have been 16 more giraffe births at the zoo. Most recently, a baby giraffe was born in 2021 whose sex has yet to be determined. The zoo’s dedicated giraffe team has even achieved monumental training feats by teaching all five of their giraffes – including two young males – patience and baby steps!
If you’re looking for an up-close experience with these majestic creatures, you can visit Nasha – a healthy 154-pound baby giraffe – bonding with her mom Tessa at Giraffe Ridge at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden®. Celebrate World Giraffe Day on June 21st or any day by learning more about these incredible animals!
Sources
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/animals/maasai-giraffe/
- http://cincinnatizoo.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/FactSheetMaasaiGiraffe2010.pdf
- https://cincinnatizoo.org/news-releases/cincinnati-zoos-giraffe-super-parents-welcome-a-new-baby/
