Jafari was a little shy on his first foray into the giraffe yard.

Jafari's First Day Out!

Jafari ventured into the giraffe yard for the very first time on Friday, August 31. An eager group of zoo visitors and staff stood watching as he cautiously approached the open gate that leads into the giraffe yard and retreated back into the safety of the barnyard. Mom Zuri paced back and forth as she watched little Jafari check out this whole new world, filled with people, grass, fences, and trees. For several hours, Jafari and Zuri walked partway into the exhibit, then into the barnyard, and back again and again. A few times, Zuri walked boldly past Jafari and far into the yard. When she turned around and saw that Jafari had not followed her, she galloped back into the barnyard.

Zoo keepers expect to give Jafari and Zuri access to the yard as often as possible. But some days, the zoo's other giraffes will need chance to explore the yard, too. We know our visitors will be patient with Jafari as he grows braver and gains confidence. It will be worth the wait!