The longest day of the year is the perfect time to celebrate the tallest species and the culmination of The Living Desert’s Year of the Giraffe. World Giraffe Day, held internationally on June 21st, raises awareness of the silent extinction of the world’s giraffe populations.

Visitors are invited to learn more about the giraffe and the species' plight through interactive activities such as learning about the danger of snares, giraffe biofacts, diet, and care procedures at The Living Desert. Guests will also learn about threats to giraffe populations and what they can do to help.  

8 a.m. to 10 a.m. World Giraffe Day activities include crafts and education stations, animal care and training demonstrations
8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Complimentary giraffe feeding
9 a.m. Keeper chat at the Giraffe Conservation and Care Center

Giraffes will be available as part of the Zoo’s animal adoption program. For $100, adopters will receive a giraffe stuffed animal, Juma the Giraffe book, certificate, photo and fact sheet.  

The Living Desert is home to a herd of eight giraffes. World Giraffe Day and Year of the Giraffe activities help raise awareness and conservation efforts for the species. The giraffe population has declined nearly 80% since the 1990s. There are estimated to be fewer than 100,000 remaining in the wild, making them one of the world’s most endangered large mammals.                                                

*Activities, unless otherwise noted, are free with admission - donations will also be accepted to aid giraffe conservation.

SUMMER TRAVEL IN GREATER PALM SPRINGS