A new addition has arrived at Disney’s Animal Kingdom—Tucker, a Masai giraffe calf born to longtime savanna resident Mara. Tucker marks the first giraffe birth at Walt Disney World since 2021 and is Mara’s third calf since joining the park in 2015.
You can now spot Tucker exploring the savanna with Mara on Kilimanjaro Safaris. Watch the video below to see Tucker out on the savanna.
Tucker’s birth contributes to the AZA’s Species Survival Plan, which focuses on protecting endangered species through managed breeding programs. Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, said the birth demonstrates Disney’s commitment to genetic diversity and long-term giraffe conservation.
Disney’s animal care team and on-site veterinarians have been closely monitoring Mara and Tucker. The team worked around the clock through pregnancy, birth, and early days to provide care for both mother and calf. According to Disney, moments like these show how scientific expertise and daily care work together to support endangered animals in human care.
Disney Conservation Fund Marks 30 Years
Tucker’s birth also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF), which supports wildlife protection around the world. Since 1995, DCF has provided over $132 million in grants to conservation programs. Claire Martin, Senior Manager of Biodiversity Conservation at Disney, says the fund supports global research and community-based projects, including those focused on endangered species like the Masai giraffe.
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