New Baby Masai Giraffe Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Brings Joy and Hope

A heartwarming milestone recently unfolded at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Bay Lake, Florida: the arrival of Tucker, a newborn Masai giraffe. Standing six feet tall at birth, Tucker is the newest addition to the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna and represents a significant step in wildlife conservation efforts at Walt Disney World Resort.

Image Courtesy of Disney

Tucker was born to Mara, a beloved female giraffe who first arrived at the park in 2015. This marks Mara’s third calf, following her previous births including Jabari in 2019. Tucker’s arrival is especially meaningful, as it is the first giraffe birth at Animal Kingdom since 2021.

The Animal Kingdom animal care team has been closely monitoring Tucker’s early experiences. According to Jenn Hernandez, an animal care manager at the park, Tucker is beginning to explore his surroundings, meet fellow animals, and interact with other giraffes.

The excitement among the staff is palpable as they support Tucker’s early days of life.

Tucker joins a growing giraffe family at the theme park, now totaling eight individuals. These animals play an essential role in Disney’s conservation programs, blending education, entertainment, and real-world environmental impact.

Mark Penning, Vice President of Animals, Science and Environment at Disney, emphasized the significance of this birth. He noted that Tucker’s arrival is part of a larger strategy focused on protecting endangered species and maintaining healthy genetic diversity within the giraffe population.

Masai giraffes are listed as endangered, with an estimated 30,000 remaining in the wild. They are one of four recognized giraffe species, along with northern, reticulated, and southern giraffes. In total, fewer than 120,000 giraffes are believed to live in their natural habitats today. You can learn more about these majestic animals in our complete guide to giraffe species.

In celebration of Tucker’s birth, Disney also spotlighted the 30th anniversary of the Disney Conservation Fund. Since its founding, the fund has supported hundreds of community-led conservation projects across the globe. These initiatives aim to protect ecosystems, preserve threatened species, and foster environmental stewardship.

Visitors to Animal Kingdom may soon have the opportunity to see Tucker in person as he continues to grow and explore under the care of expert animal specialists. His presence is a reminder of the magic that happens when conservation, education, and entertainment come together in harmony.

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check out our family guide to Disney World and best animal experiences at Disney to make the most of your visit.

Tucker’s story is more than just a charming moment—it's a symbol of hope for the future of giraffes in the wild.