Giraffe feeding program returns as zoo highlights ailing Kipenzi
From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, Seneca Park Zoo visitors are able to hand-feed Masai giraffes that are part of the zoo’s Animals of the Savanna exhibit.
An announcement this week about the seasonal program’s return includes a poignant reminder that one of the giraffes in the zoo’s care, adult female Kipenzi, has survived longer than expected with an inoperable malignant tumor on her jaw.
“X-rays show her teeth are still not affected by the tumor, which is essential for her continued well-being,” the zoo wrote May 22 on its social media channels. “She is being closely monitored for any signs of discomfort, and so far, she’s eating normally and maintaining her weight. However, things can change quickly given Kipenzi’s condition.”
Animals with the same prognosis typically survive 10 months to a year, the zoo wrote. Fourteen months after her diagnosis, Kipenzi continues to defy the odds.
But, “The tumor will continue to grow, eventually impacting her ability to eat. The Zoo knows that our staff, volunteers, members, and community have grown to love Kipenzi, as we have. She’ll be participating in giraffe feeds … and will be out in the yard and in the Savanna barn. We invite you to spend some time with her over the coming weeks.”
This year’s program starts Friday, May 24, with feedings at 11:45 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Going forward, they’ll happen at those times Thursdays through Mondays.
Tickets ($5) are limited and often sell out. They are not available in advance but at the Savanna Outpost on the day of the feedings, which take place on a platform in the Animals of the Savanna exhibit area and are subject to cancellation based on weather and giraffe cooperation.
Children ages 3 to 11 must have their own tickets and be accompanied by ticketed adults.
No children younger than 3 are allowed on the feeding deck.
Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St. Paul St., is home to five Masai giraffes — females Kipenzi, Iggi and Pippi and males Olmsted (or Olmy) and JD.
Reporter Marcia Greenwood covers general assignments. Send story tips to mgreenwo@rocheste.gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @MarciaGreenwood.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Giraffe feeding program returns at Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester NY
