When the Zoo’s Masai giraffes needed to move because construction was underway for Elephant Odyssey, the animal care and architecture staff took the long view and planned a new exhibit for them that was spot on. The former rhino enclosure on Elephant Mesa was remodeled into a space twice as big as the giraffes’ old home, complete with browse hangers, a waterhole, a new shelter—and a top-notch view of the surrounding hillsides.

The home improvement process also added a way for Zoo visitors to get to know the giraffes on a new level and up close. At the far end a special patio was created where the keepers could call over a couple of the giraffes, and guests could stand on the other side of a gate to feed them treats. This opportunity was more than meets the eye—the money raised went to help support conservation efforts in African communities. So by nibbling goodies, these big, beautiful browsers were actually helping out their own kind!