Gulf Breeze Zoo Celebrates the Birth of a New Giraffe Calf
Information courtesy of Gulf Breeze Zoo
Photo credit courtesy: Gulf Breeze Zookeeper Robert Refrow
The Gulf Breeze Zoo is thrilled to announce the birth of Kahlani, a female reticulated giraffe calf. Kahlani, born on May 9, stands six feet tall and weighs 151 pounds. She is the proud daughter of Kenya and Gideon. The Zoo’s dedicated animal care team closely monitored the birth to ensure a smooth delivery and continued health for both mother and calf. Like most giraffe births, Kahlani made a memorable entrance into the world. Calves are typically born while the mother is standing, resulting in a six-foot drop at birth.
“Kahlani found a special place in our hearts almost instantaneously. Despite being the fourth calf born in eight months, she has a personality of her own,” said Cassidy Mazzone, Gulf Breeze Zoo Park Director. “She enjoys her training sessions with the hoofstock team and is being introduced to the rest of the giraffe herd.”
Reticulated giraffes are among the most iconic yet vulnerable animals in Africa. “Every birth is not only a joyful moment for our team, but also meaningful for giraffe conservation and ensuring future generations,” said Mazzone.
Listed as “Vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), populations have suffered a decline of nearly 40% during the past 30 years, largely due to habitat loss and poaching. With wild populations estimated between 4,500 and 4,700, each birth is a hopeful step in the effort to protect the species.
Guests can catch a glimpse of the energetic giraffe calf during daily visits from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. Although she’s still too young to enjoy romaine lettuce, guests can feed other members of the giraffe tower or book an up-close giraffe encounter at 1 p.m. daily.
About Gulf Breeze Zoo
The Gulf Breeze Zoo is one of four zoological facilities operated by the Zoofari Parks Corporation, working in conjunction with the Alabama Safari Park, the Virginia Safari Park and the Texas Zoofari Park to provide aid to more than 135 countries around the world.
The Gulf Coast Area’s award-winning Gulf Breeze Zoo is home to more than 1000 exotic animals, many of them threatened and endangered. The Gulf Breeze Zoo is privately owned and receives no state or federal tax support. Through admissions and animal encounters, each guest contributes to the conservation programs.
The Zoo opens at 9 a.m. daily and is located just off Highway 98. Visit www.GBZoo.com for event updates, seasonal hours and more.
About Zoofari Parks
Zoofari Parks - through its Virginia Safari Park, Gulf Breeze Zoo, Alabama Safari Park and Texas Zoofari Park, is dedicated to wildlife conservation through public education, captive breeding programs, habitat preservation, and providing financial aid and assistance to projects in the field. Funding for conservation programs is made possible through the continued support of zoo guests. Conservation is fundamental in our daily operations and visitors are encouraged to join us in making a difference on this journey.
