A new baby giraffe has made his debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and excitement is soaring—literally and figuratively. The Walt Disney World Resort welcomed the arrival of Tucker, a male Masai giraffe calf born to Mara, one of the park’s longtime residents.
The birth marks the first giraffe calf born at the resort since 2021, and underscores Disney’s continued commitment to wildlife conservation. Onlookers were treated to a heartwarming sight as Tucker and his mother stepped out onto the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna together for the first time.
Mara, who has been part of the Animal Kingdom family since 2015, has now given birth to three calves. Her first, Jabari, was born in 2019. According to Disney officials, both Mara and Tucker are doing well under the watchful care of the park’s veterinary and animal care teams.
A Conservation Win for an Endangered Species
The birth is particularly significant given that Masai giraffes are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with only about 30,000 remaining in the wild. Habitat loss and poaching remain major threats to the species.
“This birth is really important for us,” said Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment. “It’s a testament to Disney’s leadership in animal care and conservation and our partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Species Survival Plan. These programs help ensure the long-term survival and genetic health of species like the Masai giraffe.”
Celebrating 30 Years of the Disney Conservation Fund
The news comes as the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) celebrates its 30th anniversary. Since its launch in 1995, the fund has contributed more than $132 million to support global and local conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered wildlife and their habitats.
“Through DCF grants to nonprofit organizations and the efforts of Disney’s conservation team, we’re working to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems, and empower future conservation leaders,” said Claire Martin, Senior Manager of Biodiversity Conservation at The Walt Disney Company.
More Than Just a Theme Park
Beyond the thrill of theme park attractions, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has established itself as a key player in global conservation. From breeding endangered species like the Masai giraffe to supporting public awareness efforts, the park aims to blend entertainment with environmental stewardship.
With the arrival of Tucker, Disney’s animal care and conservation teams celebrate another step forward in preserving some of the planet’s most majestic creatures—and ensuring that future generations will be able to see them thrive.
