Baby Giraffe Tucker Born at Animal Kingdom
Mondays need news like this! Mara, a Masai giraffe, recently gave birth to baby boy Tucker at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The two joined the rest of the tower on the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna earlier today. Tucker is Mara’s third calf and the first giraffe born at the park since 2021. As you’d expect, mom and baby have received around-the-clock care from Disney’s veterinarians and animal care team.
All photos are copyrighted by Disney.
Like most animals living at Animal Kingdom, Masai giraffes are endangered. Only 30,000 remain worldwide. Habitat loss and poaching are responsible for their dwindling numbers (we hear that a lot). Disney’s Dr. Mark Penning underscores how important Tucker’s arrival is:
“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.”
Disney actively helps ensure the futures of many endangered species through the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF). The organization, celebrating its 30th anniversary, has “directed more than $132 million to community conservation programs to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience.” You can contribute to that fund by booking tours like Up Close with Rhinos and Caring for Giants at Animal Kingdom.
Disney shared a video of Cast Members reacting to Tucker’s arrival.
I hope to snap many photos of Tucker when we visit Animal Kingdom later this month.
Read more: Animal Kingdom Lodge Welcomes Rüppell’s Griffon Vulture Chick
