Tucker the Masai Giraffe Celebrates First Birthday at Kilimanjaro Safaris
Kilimanjaro Safaris celebrated a birthday this week as Tucker, the youngest Masai giraffe on the savanna, turned one. And as Disney is known to do, Cast Members made it a memorable occasion.
Tucker’s keepers prepared a “cake” of leafy branches, frozen letters spelling out “Tucker” and “happy birthday,” and plenty of hearts made from sweet potatoes, onions, and turnips. The food display even included a giraffe and a Mickey head.
Perhaps Tucker was a little unsettled by the idea of eating a giraffe, because he bolted when he saw the spread. Nicole, one of Animal Kingdom’s primary giraffe trainers, shared why:
“Giraffes have a tendency to stare at something for a significant amount of time before they decide whether it’s safe or it’s completely terrifying.”
At first, that cake turned out to be completely terrifying to Tucker. He eventually worked up the courage to take a few bites, thanks in part to his older sister showing him the way. An eland named Finn finished most of it.
The last big savanna birthday was for Corra the elephant, who celebrated by rampaging through her party decorations. Tucker took a quieter, more thoughtful approach. Different vibes, but equally excellent outcomes. Disney’s animal care team goes all out for their babies.
