News Release

April 15, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sondra Katzen
Public Relations
708.688.8351
sondra.katzen@czs.org

Note: Images of the giraffes are available at www.CZS.org/PressRoom.

Giraffes at Brookfield Zoo Enjoy Spring Weather

      Brookfield, Ill.—In spite of the cooler temperatures the Midwest has been experiencing, the Chicago Zoological Society’s Animal Programs staff is taking advantage of today’s warmer weather to allow the giraffes access to the outdoor habitat for the first time this year—a sure sign of spring at Brookfield Zoo. The annual event is always exciting to witness as the giraffes gracefully run around stretching their legs and necks.

The herd includes Mithra, a 22-year-old female; Franny, a 21-year-old female and her 6-year-old daughter, Arnieta; Jasiri, a 7-year-old female; and Dave, Arnieta’s 5-month-old calf, who will be making his outdoor debut today. Hasani, a 4-year-old male, has access to the outdoors but is currently separated from the others.

Reticulated giraffes’ are native to northeast Kenya in Africa, so the outdoor temperature at the zoo needs to be at least 45-50°F for them to have access outside. (During the winter months, visitors can see them indoors.)

# # #