A new baby Masai giraffe has been born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the first since 2021.
Baby Masai Giraffe Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Mara, the Masai giraffe, recently gave birth to a calf named Tucker. Over the coming weeks, guests aboard Kilimanjaro Safaris will be able to see Tucker’s developmental milestones as he explores the savanna and bonds with his mom. Disney’s team of animal care professionals and veterinarians are closely monitoring each milestone, ensuring Tucker’s well-being. As of today, April 7, 2025, the young Masai giraffe weighs 129 kilograms.
It is also worth mentioning that Tucker can be seen on Kilimanjaro Safaris only, and not on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Mara first joined the savanna in 2015 and has given birth three times now. Her first calf, Jabari, was born in 2019.
The Masai giraffe is considered an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Around 30,000 Masai giraffes remain globally due to habitat loss and poaching. Through Disney’s relationship with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP), the company plays a critical role in the protection and conservation of the species.
Disney has welcomed several animal births through the AZA’s SSP in just the last year alone, including Hartmann’s mountain zebras, cotton-top tamarins, a rare addax, and most recently, Bakso, a Sumatran tiger cub. Tucker’s birth directly contributes to the genetic diversity and long-term sustainability of the Masai giraffe population around the world.
As one of the select few AZA-accredited facilities with an on-site veterinary care hospital and a team of specialized experts, Disney is committed to providing the highest standard of care for all animals, ensuring a healthier future for endangered species.
The [Masai giraffe’s] birth is a key reminder of the vital role we all play in preserving endangered species and protecting biodiversity for future generations. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is not only a place where families can create magical memories, but also a hub for wildlife conservation efforts around the world.
Tucker’s arrival contributes to the genetic diversity and health of the Masai giraffe population, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sight of these majestic animals towering above the savanna.
“Tucker’s birth is really important for us. It’s a testament to Disney’s leadership in animal care and conservation and our incredible partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Species Survival Plan. This plan focuses on maintaining genetic diversity of the giraffe population and helping to prevent giraffes from becoming extinct,” said Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment.
Disney Conservation Fund
30 Years of DCF
For 30 years, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) has provided support to respected conservation organizations to help protect rapidly vanishing wildlife and habitats around the world. Since its inception in 1995, the DCF has directed over $132 million to community conservation programs and worked with communities to protect wildlife and promote environmental resilience.
What is DCF?
Established on Earth Day, April 22, 1995, the DCF was created to help protect wildlife and their habitats and connect people with nature. Through funding from The Walt Disney Company and the support of guests visiting the Disney Parks, the DCF offers financial support for conservation programs.
How does Disney do it?
Disney helps to protect endangered species, restore habitats, empower future conservation leaders, and address global environmental issues, all thanks to DCF grants to local and global non-profit organizations and Disney Conservation Cast Members.
Why does Disney do it?
The DCF came about thanks to the creation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World (which opened in 1998). Since then, the DCF has helped to continue a conservation legacy started by Walt Disney himself and inspire action and a love for nature, animals, and planet Earth.
DCF by the numbers (since 1995):
- $132M invested in wildlife and nature conservation across half the countries in the world and all five oceans
- 1,000+ species of wildlife that Disney has helped to protect
- 315M+ acres that Disney has helped protect globally
- 600+ organizations supported through grants from the DCF
- Millions of awe-inspiring nature experiences provided to kids and families across the globe
Are you excited to see Tucker at Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Let us know on social media, and watch our video of the new baby Masai giraffe below:
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