It's All in the Genes
The giraffe herd here at the Santa Barbara Zoo is just a small part of the population of 123 Masai giraffes that live at 32 accredited zoos in North America. Michael, a longtime resident of the Zoo before his passing, was the most genetically valuable male Masai giraffe anywhere outside of Africa and our Zoo has played an important role in the overall population. This is why our adorable calves go off to start herds of their own (at other AZA-accredited zoos) and contribute their valuable genetics to the overall population.
Thirteen Masai giraffes have been born at the Santa Barbara Zoo since 2012.
Our Crew
Sponsor Us!-min75cc.jpg)
Malia
- Is a female calf, was born to Adia on November 2, 2023
- Was measured at a little over 6 feet tall and 152 lb. at her first medical exam
- Is very curious and alert
- Is the last of Michael’s progeny
Raymie
- Is male, was born to Adia on January 19, 2022
- Is an inquisitive giraffe who likes to take things at his own pace, just like his mom
- Enjoys lying in the sunshine basking in the Santa Barbara sun
Adia
- Delivered her first calf, Twiga, on March 27, 2020
- Was born at Cleveland Zoo in Ohio
- Has a distinct dark face and a notch in her left ear
- Gave birth to male calf Raymie on Jan 19, 2022
- Gave birth to female calf Malia on Nov 2, 2023
Theo
- Arrived from Cincinnati Zoo in Ohio in May 2023
- Is male and was born on November 23, 2019
- Enjoys meeting guests on the Giraffe Deck
- Keepers say he's "sweet"
Audrey
- Arrived from Los Angeles Zoo on March 10, 2010
- Was born in February 2008 at the Los Angeles Zoo and was hand-raised by keepers
- Has light-colored lips
- Is described by keepers as a great mother
Conservation Status
On July 11, 2019, the IUCN announced that Masai giraffes are now endangered, primarily because of poaching and changes in land use. Of the nine subspecies of giraffes, Masai (the largest) and reticulated giraffes are endangered, and Nubian and Kordofan giraffes are critically endangered. There are an estimated 35,000 Masai giraffes currently but their population has fallen by nearly 50% in the last three decades. Africa’s overall giraffe population has decreased by about 40% in that same timeframe.
-min2dff.jpg)
Species Survival Plans
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the 220+ accredited zoos and aquariums that participate in Species Survival Plans (SSP), a cooperatively managed program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). More than 200 different species are managed through SSPs, aimed at maintaining genetic diversity within AZA populations, sustaining these populations, and guarding against extinction.
Wildlife Experiences
Meet the Animals
Have you always wanted to get just a little bit closer to the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo? Well, you can! Take a look at our animal encounters, and choose the best option for you and/or your family.