21/06/2025
Saturday, 21 June, the world comes together to celebrate World Giraffe Day, an initiative by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) to honour the tallest land animal on the longest night (or day) of the year.
Here at SANBI, we take this opportunity to shine a spotlight on the remarkable giraffes in our care at the National Zoological Garden (NZG) and Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre.
We are thrilled to announce the birth of a new giraffe calf, named Enzo, born on Sunday, 8 June, at NZG. Enzo is the offspring of Momo, our wise 11-year-old matriarch known for her calm and independent nature. ‘The birth of Enzo reminds us of the critical importance of breeding programmes in conservation. Every new calf is a sign of hope for the species, and a testament to the dedicated care our team provides daily,’ Carol Thobela, Curator – Carnivores/ Pachyderms/farmyard.
Meet the NZG giraffe family
• Momo (11): Quiet and composed, Momo prefers to keep her distance and trusts in herself. She now takes on her new role as Enzo’s mother with grace and calm leadership.
• Tiago (born 2020): A true favourite, Tiago was hand-reared and has formed an unbreakable bond with the giraffe care team. He is exceptionally playful and affectionate, you can rub necks with him, get a gentle kiss, and even walk alongside him outside his enclosure. He is afraid of thunder and lightning, often refusing to eat during storms. What’s most remarkable is that he can recognise staff members, even in a crowd of visitors, and never forgot the team that raised him.
• Azuri (born 2022): Full of confidence and curiosity, Azuri loves observing everything from his favourite spot on a mound. He is independent and alert, always keeping a watchful eye.
• Bonito (9): The dominant breeding bull of the group. He is bold and food-driven, often approaching staff, but only when there’s browse in hand!
Giraffes at Mokopane
At Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre, a free-roaming herd of 15 giraffes offers a more natural glimpse into giraffe behaviour and ecology.
Based on genetic classification, our giraffes are assumed to be South African giraffes (Giraffa giraffa giraffa). While they are listed as Least Concern on the local Red List, they remain globally Vulnerable, reminding us of the vital role conservation efforts continue to play. Beyond animal care and education, NZG contributes to national conservation efforts by collecting and storing genetic material from giraffes and other species as part of South Africa’s national genetic repository.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate our tall friends and the team that supports them every day.
