Central Florida Zoo welcomes two female giraffes to Sanford habitat

Families visiting the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford can now spot two new female giraffes settling into the habitat. The unnamed giraffes are both 4 years old and were moved into the Lake Monroe attraction from another Association of Zoos and Aquariums institution.

The new arrivals are being kept separate from Gage, the zoo’s male giraffe, while they adjust to the habitat and complete recommended reproductive management protocols. The trio will remain apart for at least a month. Visitors can feed the new giraffes later this fall if the animals are comfortable, while Gage’s feedings will continue as usual.

Senior hoofstock keeper Maggie Funk said the two giraffes have been settling in well and already seem brave, approaching keepers and taking snacks from their hands. General Curator Erin Bussom said the move is part of the zoo’s work with accredited zoological and conservation partners to support the long-term sustainability of giraffe populations while teaching guests about the species’ role in the wild.

The giraffe habitat is already part of a larger lineup at the Central Florida Zoo that includes giraffe feedings, rhino encounters, Barnyard Buddies and other close-up animal programs. The zoo charges $6 per person to feed Gage daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting and subject to animal cooperation.

The Central Florida Zoo has been AZA-accredited since 1986 and has operated at its Lake Monroe location since 1975. It is home to more than 350 animals representing over 100 species.

The arrival also comes less than a year after the zoo lost Rafiki, a giraffe who helped open the habitat and died on Oct. 30, 2024, after a chronic medical condition. Wild giraffe populations have declined by about 40% over the last three decades, according to the zoo’s giraffe materials.