San Antonio Zoo’s giraffe herd expanded on Friday, November 29, as the zoo welcomed Waffles, a female reticulated giraffe.
Reticulated giraffes are a threatened species and according to San Antonio Zoo, Waffles’ transfer represented an important step in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) – a conservation initiative aiming to protect wildlife for generations to come.
“Waffles’ arrival is a moment for celebration at the zoo, and the next step in building our herd for future breeding,” said Tim Morrow, President and CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “She represents our continued commitment to conservation while offering a special opportunity for the community to get closer to one of the most iconic species on Earth. We can’t wait for guests to come out and welcome her into her new home.”
Footage shared by the zoo shows Waffles stepping into her new home.
Guests were invited to come visit Waffles at the zoo’s Naylor Savanna giraffe barn’s yard, starting on December 2. Credit: San Antonio Zoo via Storyful