The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in Gulf Shores will join the global celebration of World Giraffe Day today, June 21st. This annual event coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, paying tribute to the world's tallest land animal.

World Giraffe Day is an initiative by the Giraffe Conservation Fund (GCF) to raise awareness about the challenges giraffes face in the wild. These majestic creatures are threatened by poaching, habitat loss, civil unrest, and ecological changes.

The GCF's conservation efforts span 19 African countries, involving giraffe translocation, anti-poaching initiatives, and educational programs. With only around 117,000 giraffes remaining in the wild, the species was listed as "Vulnerable to Extinction" on the IUCN Red List in 2016.

Community Involvement

The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo invites the local community to participate in this important day and learn about giraffe conservation and contribute to efforts to protect these gentle giants.

The zoo's events include educational activities and opportunities to support the GCF's mission. Visitors can attend extended giraffe feedings from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 2 to 3:30 p.m. to get closer to the zoo's giraffes, Benjamin and Mikayla.

An auction will also be held for a Giraffe Painting Experience, where visitors could bid to paint the zoo's giraffes. The proceeds from the auction supported the GCF's conservation efforts.

Protecting a Vulnerable Species

Joel Hamilton, the executive director of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, emphasized the importance of conservation efforts to save the giraffe population. He cited habitat loss, human encroachment, and the bush-meat trade as major factors contributing to the species' decline.

"It's always important for us and one of our primary goals of our mission and reason for being here is to inspire people to take action and conservation," Hamilton said.

He encouraged the public to visit the zoo, learn about giraffes, and support organizations like the GCF or local zoos to contribute to giraffe conservation efforts.

By participating in World Giraffe Day, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo aims to raise awareness and inspire action to protect these gentle giants and ensure their future in the wild.