Reid Park Zoo is both excited and sad to share that Moyo, an endangered reticulated giraffe born here at the Zoo in January 2024, will soon be leaving to join another zoo family. This move is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan recommendation to ensure long-term sustainability of giraffes.
“While it is hard to say goodbye, we are happy for Moyo as he continues to be an ambassador for his species, inspiring guests to care about and join in protecting giraffes for future generations,” said Adam Ramsey, Reid Park Zoo Director of Animal Care. “He has been a favorite with Zoo guests as he has grown from a wobbly little calf into a strong, young giraffe. We know he will have a bright future and continue to thrive in his new home.”
Moyo, whose name means “heart” in Swahili, was born on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2024 and affectionately named after the small heart-shaped markings on his neck. He is the first offspring of parents Penny and Jasiri at the Reid Park Zoo and is the first giraffe to be born at the Zoo in over 20 years. In the wild, male giraffes depart from their mothers by 18 months of age.
The Zoo invites the community to come and wish Moyo well before he leaves. The Zoo is open every day from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
