Oakland Zoo Welcomes New Giraffe

Oakland, CA – Oakland Zoo announces the arrival of a new bull giraffe named Mabusu; this is Swalhili for “Kisses.” Mabusu was transported to Oakland in a special giraffe trailer, which is a bit taller than a standard horse trailer. “He proved he is a very adaptable, stoic fellow over his lengthy journey. He loaded the trailer calmly, shipped calmly, and unloaded into our barn very quietly. He began eating right away,” says Amy Phelps, Zoo Keeper.

The Oakland Zoo acquired him from the San Diego Wild Animal Park, where he was specially chosen to participate in the Oakland Zoo’s giraffe breeding program. The young giraffe is a recommended match to our females by the AZA’s Giraffe Population Management Program. It will most likely be a few years before his is able to sire a calf, but once he does, he will help the Oakland Zoo contribute to the captive breeding programs within AZA facilities.

Mabusu remained separated from his new family for the past month in order for Zoo Keepers to properly acquaint him with his new surroundings. He was formally introduced to the giraffe herd just days ago. At only a year old, he is already ten feet tall and weighs approximately 800 pounds. That may seem large, but he actually looks much smaller next to his sixteen foot companions. You’ll definitely be able to pick him out at the giraffe exhibit! If his height doesn’t give him away, his love for peanut butter sure will says Zoo Keeper Amy Phelps. “Kids visiting the exhibit can keep an eye out for colored balls or logs hung up on poles and fences with peanut butter on them.” This type of enrichment activity is designed to keep Mabusu and the other veldt animals busy throughout the day.

The award-winning Oakland Zoo is home to over 440 native and exotic animals. Nestled in the Oakland Hills, in 525 acre Knowland Park, the Zoo is located at 9777 Golf Links Road, off Highway 580. For more information please call (510) 632-9525 ext. 130, or visit our web site at www.oaklandzoo.org.