Meet Alika

Introducing the newest addition to the Masai giraffe herd: Alika! This young female transferred in June from the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium’s (AZA) Species Survival Plan. Alika will be turning two in September and is almost as tall as 3-year-old Chandy, who is her best buddy in the herd. The towering girl is very curious and has enjoyed observing her other habitat mates, the zebras!

Giraffes Alika, Chandy, Mahali, Makali, and Aidan are incredible ambassadors for their wild counterparts, who are unfortunately facing a “silent extinction.” Giraffe populations have decreased by 30 percent in the past 35 years. The Masai giraffe is now listed as endangered by the IUCN due to threats such as habitat loss and poaching. The AZA community is working with conservation partners to help ensure a future for wild giraffes.

Remember, giraffes like it hot and dry! If you are hoping to see giraffes on your visit to the Zoo, it is best to come when temperatures will remain above 70 degrees and when there are no storms in the forecast.