San Antonio Zoo Welcomes New Giraffe
San Antonio Zoo Welcomes New Giraffe
San Antonio, TX - A new long-necked resident has arrived at San Antonio Zoo! The zoo is proud to welcome Waffles, a female Reticulated giraffe, who officially joined the giraffe herd on Friday, November 29.
Waffles was born on March 4, 2023, at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center to her parents Snorgie and Mananasi. Her transfer to San Antonio Zoo marks an important step in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a collaborative conservation initiative run by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). By managing genetically diverse and sustainable animal populations, SSP programs play a key role in protecting wildlife for generations to come.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature listed several giraffe subspecies as critically endangered in 2018. This November U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed to list three subspecies of northern giraffes as endangered under the Endangered Species Act for the first time. The service said the population has plummeted by 77% since 1985 to 5,919 individuals. A further two subspecies in East Africa, the Reticulated and the Masai giraffes are set to be listed as threatened, a step below the endangered status. The proposed listings will be finalized within a year.
Guests may have the opportunity to “spot” Waffles in the new Naylor Savanna giraffe barn’s yard beginning today. Guest viewing into the barn, through floor to ceiling windows will begin next week. This innovative habitat provides an incredible view of Waffles up close as she acclimates to her new surroundings and plays an integral role in the zoo’s growing giraffe herd. Female giraffes reach sexual maturity at 3 to 4 years of age.
“Waffles’ arrival is a moment for celebration at the zoo, and the next step in building our herd for future breeding” said Tim Morrow President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “She represents our continued commitment to conservation while offering a special opportunity for the community to get closer to one of the most iconic species on Earth. We can’t wait for guests to come out and welcome her into her new home.”
Giraffes are known for their unique spotted patterns, which are as distinctive as human fingerprints. Beneath these striking spots are specialized sweat glands and blood vessels, helping giraffes regulate their body temperature. Combined with their immense height, these patterns also provide camouflage in their natural environments, proving there's more to these waffle patterns than meets the eye. Waffles has a very distinctive marking on her neck that resembles an hourglass.
The animal care team at Fossil Rim shared that Waffles personality is very inquisitive, she loves to eat, and will be a great mom, she already shows maternal instincts.
Through December 31st Longnecks Bar & Grill, located adjacent to Naylor Savanna, is celebrating Waffles’ arrival with one-of-a-kind waffle flights. This one-of-a-kind treat is available from when the zoo opens to sundown each day. Guests can savor delicious treats while enjoying views of the Naylor Savanna, creating a sweet experience that's fun for the whole family.
Also located in the newly renovated Naylor Savanna is Spekboom Lodge, San Antonio Zoo's new overnight suite where you can sleep alongside giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and other African species. Now open for booking on the zoo’s website! A portion of each visit directly supports Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the only global organization dedicated to ensuring the survival of these magnificent creatures.
Waffles’ arrival reflects San Antonio Zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation and its role within the community. By supporting critical programs like the Species Survival Plan, the zoo continues to set the standard in safeguarding the future of vulnerable species while creating unforgettable experiences for its guests.
We look forward to seeing you at San Antonio Zoo!
About San Antonio Zoological Society
San Antonio Zoological Society was established in 1929 and is a nonprofit organization committed to securing a future for wildlife. The society operates San Antonio Zoo, Will Smith Zoo School, Edutainment, Center for Conservation and Research at San Antonio Zoo, and Kiddie Park.
Website www.sazoo.org
About San Antonio Zoo
San Antonio Zoo®, operating since 1914, is a nonprofit zoological facility committed to securing a future for wildlife. Through its passion and expertise in animal care, conservation, and education, the zoo's mission is to inspire its community to love, engage with, act for and protect animals and the places they live. The zoo welcomes more than a million visitors each year and is open year-round. San Antonio Zoo operates the largest nature based preschool in the country, Will Smith Zoo School, the Center for Conservation and Research, and Kiddie Park. San Antonio Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Zoological Association of America, and Humane Certified by American Humane.
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