PRETORIA – The National Zoological Garden has welcomed its newest star – a bouncing baby giraffe who’s already capturing hearts and stretching necks to get a better look. Born on 8 June to proud mother Momo, the adorable calf has been named Enzo, meaning “ruler of the estate” – and by all accounts, this little one is already living up to the regal title.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect, with Enzo’s arrival coinciding beautifully with World Giraffe Day on 21 June, a global celebration that honours the world’s tallest animals on the longest day of the year.
“Even though we don’t yet know if Enzo is a male or female, the name reflects the confidence and spirit we’re already seeing,” beams Carol Thobela, the zoo’s Curator of Carnivores, Pachyderms and Farmyard. “It’s a strong, bold name that suits the energy this little one brings to our giraffe family.”
A family of gentle giants
Enzo joins a delightful cast of giraffe personalities at the National Zoo. There’s 11-year-old matriarch Momo, known for her serene and independent nature, who has proven to be a wonderful mother. The herd also includes Tiago, a 2020 baby who was hand-reared by devoted staff and remains remarkably friendly, often recognizing his caregivers even in crowds of visitors.
Then there’s confident young Azuri, born in 2022, who loves surveying his domain from his favorite elevated mound like a furry watchtower. And let’s not forget Bonito, the 9-year-old breeding bull whose approach to life is refreshingly straightforward – he’s all about the food, and staff know exactly how to win his attention with his favorite browse.
More than just pretty faces
While visitors flock to admire these towering beauties, the National Zoo’s giraffe program represents something much deeper. The facility contributes vital genetic material to South Africa’s national repository, helping secure the future of these magnificent creatures for generations to come.
“Understanding subspecies helps us align our animal management practices with conservation science,” explains Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Conservation. “We’re not just caring for individual animals – we’re contributing meaningful data to global conservation efforts.”
The zoo’s dedication shows in every detail of giraffe care. Elevated feeders mimic natural tree-top grazing, while thoughtfully designed night shelters and protective moats work with giraffes’ natural instincts. Thanks to generous donations from the City of Tshwane and local communities, the giraffes enjoy a varied, natural diet that keeps them healthy and content.
A conservation success story
Meanwhile, at the Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre, 15 giraffes roam freely across the game reserve, offering researchers and visitors alike a window into natural giraffe behavior. It’s a reminder that conservation efforts are working, even as challenges remain.
World Giraffe Day serves as both celebration and a call to action. While giraffes are classified as ‘least concern’ locally, they face vulnerable status globally, with some subspecies at even higher risk due to habitat loss and other threats.
“As we mark World Giraffe Day, we celebrate not only these incredible animals but also the vital role they play in healthy ecosystems,” says SANBI’s Director of Marketing, Communication and Commercialisation. “We invite all South Africans to visit and join us in learning about the importance of protecting these gentle giants for future generations.”
Little Enzo may be small now, but this newest addition to the National Zoo family represents hope, joy, and the continuing success of conservation efforts that ensure Africa’s iconic giraffes will continue to grace our landscapes – and capture our hearts – for years to come.
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