Welcome, Tucker! Baby giraffe born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
A wave of excitement has swept through Disney’s Animal Kingdom as Disney World proudly announces the arrival of a precious new member to the Kilimanjaro Safaris family. Mara, a Masai giraffe, has given birth to a healthy and handsome baby giraffe, who has been lovingly named Tucker.
This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone, as it represents the first giraffe calf born at Disney World since 2021.
Mara, who joined the savanna in 2015, has once again expanded her family, demonstrating her remarkable maternal instincts. This birth is her third, and it’s hard to believe that it was only a few years ago, in 2019, that the park celebrated the arrival of her first calf, Jabari, who was born on the savanna in front of guests.
Now, park visitors have the delightful opportunity to witness Mara and Tucker as they take their first steps together, exploring the vast expanse of the savanna.
The birth of a Masai giraffe calf at Animal Kingdom carries profound importance, extending far beyond the park’s boundaries. The Masai giraffe is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with a dwindling population of approximately 30,000 individuals remaining in the wild. These creatures face numerous threats, including habitat loss and poaching, which have significantly impacted their numbers.
Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, emphasized the significance of Tucker’s birth, stating, “Tucker’s birth is really important for us. It’s a testament to Disney’s leadership in animal care and conservation and our incredible partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Species Survival Plan. This plan focuses on maintaining genetic diversity of the giraffe population and helping to prevent giraffes from becoming extinct.”
The dedicated team of world-class animal care professionals and expert on-site veterinarians at Disney World have provided unwavering, around-the-clock care to ensure the well-being of both Mara and her newborn calf.
Tucker’s arrival plays a crucial role in bolstering the genetic diversity and overall health of the Masai giraffe population. By contributing to these conservation efforts, Disney is helping to ensure that future generations will have the privilege of witnessing these magnificent animals gracefully traversing the savanna.
