- Giraffe natural history and behavior
- The importance of zoos in conservation
- The giraffe feeding experience at the zoo
- Understanding Theo’s role in education
- How to support wildlife conservation efforts
Giraffes are among the most captivating animals on Earth, with their towering necks and graceful strides. Known for their striking appearance, these gentle giants exhibit a wide array of behaviors that fascinate scientists and enthusiasts alike. Theo, our notable Masai giraffe at the zoo, provides visitors with a unique chance to engage with these magnificent creatures through our organized giraffe feeding experience.
Giraffes belong to the Giraffidae family and are distinguished by their long necks and legs, spotted patterns, and distinctive horns known as ossicones. Native to African savannas, they primarily browse on leaves, twigs, and fruits of trees, notably acacias. These towering herbivores utilize their prehensile tongues, which can extend up to 18 inches, to reach foliage others cannot access. Their swinging gait and unique heart structure enable efficient blood circulation even in their extended necks, crucial for avoiding fainting when they raise or lower their heads.
Our zoo plays an integral role in wildlife conservation. Beyond serving as educational hubs, zoos provide a sanctuary for endangered species and engage in critical research. They’ve become vital in contributing to conservation breeding programs, ensuring genetic diversity and species survival. The presence of Theo helps highlight the need for action as giraffe populations dwindle due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
Our giraffe feeding experience offers an invaluable educational opportunity. Held daily, this interaction enables visitors to connect closely with Theo, touching on aspects of his life, dietary needs, and natural behaviors. This face-to-face encounter fosters a greater understanding of giraffes’ ecological importance and the threats they face in the wild. It instills appreciation and stewardship within the community, underscoring the human responsibility toward preservation.
Theo serves as an ambassador for his species, shedding light on the pressing issues facing giraffes today. By observing him and participating in feeding, visitors gain insights into the daily life of giraffes. This hands-on experience complements our educational programs aimed at spreading awareness. Through participatory learning, guests are empowered to make informed decisions about assisting wildlife conservation efforts.
Supporting wildlife preservation is paramount. Visitors can contribute by participating in zoo activities, adopting an animal, or supporting conservation initiatives. Contributions help fund habitat restoration, research, and education projects. By engaging actively, individuals are directly aiding in the preservation of these iconic creatures and ensuring future generations observe them not merely in pictures.
Theo, the Masai giraffe, stands as a symbol of hope for the survival of his kind. By visiting and engaging in our feeding experience, you join a global movement committed to conserving wildlife and protecting our planet’s natural heritage.
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POV: You just gave Theo a big, green lettuce leaf! 🥬🦒
Don’t forget to check out our Giraffe Feeding Experience on your next trip to the Zoo!
The deck is typically open from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Giraffe feeding schedule may vary due to weather and/or animal behavior; check at the giraffe deck when you visit for the day’s schedule.
Cost: $8/person, $5/SB Zoo Members. Buy tickets at the Zoo on the day of your visit.
Alt-text: Theo the Masai giraffe lifts his head over the giraffe deck and he chews on a leaf of lettuce.
