Hand-Feeding Rothschild's Giraffes at the Giraffe Center in Nairobi

 

Rob, hand feeding a rare Rothschild's Giraffe, while taking a selfie of course.

The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi is a unique conservation and educational institution dedicated to the endangered Rothschild's giraffe. Established in 1979 by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, the center aims to raise awareness about giraffe conservation and provide a platform for the public to interact with these graceful creatures. One of the main attractions is the elevated feeding platform where we can get up close and personal with the giraffes, allowing for unforgettable moments as these gentle giants gracefully extend their long necks to accept snacks from our hands.

At the Giraffe Centre, education is a key focus, and the center offers informative sessions about giraffe behavior, their ecological significance, and the challenges they face in the wild. We had a private talk with one of the docents to answer all our questions. He talked about the efforts to protect and preserve giraffe populations, particularly the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, which has found a safe haven at the center. The Giraffe Centre's commitment to environmental education extends to local schools and communities, fostering a sense of responsibility for wildlife conservation among the younger generation.

Beyond its conservation and educational initiatives, the Giraffe Centre is also actively involved in breeding programs to ensure the survival of Rothschild's giraffes. The center's success in breeding and reintroducing these giraffes into protected areas contributes significantly to global efforts to safeguard this rare subspecies. I have seen some of these reintroduced giraffes in Nakuru National Park. Through its combination of hands-on experiences, educational programs, and conservation efforts, the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi stands as a shining example of how dedicated institutions can make a positive impact on the future of endangered species.

It is true. I've seen it happen.

Welcome to the Giraffe center in Nairobi. Located in the field behind the famous Giraffe Manor, these giraffes are ready for their close ups!

Mike with his new friend. I belief this was Jock IX.

Tracy looking quite at ease with this giraffe.

Luckily no one in our group got head butted today.

Keli just can't say no to this giraffe.

Kris making friends.

I had to join the fun as well. You get a small amount of food as you enter the center. That way the giraffes won't be overfed.

Located in the fashionable district of Karen, the Talisman is where those in the know come to eat, here in Nairobi.

After our morning hanging with orphaned rhinos and elephants, and hand feeding giraffes, we stopped in at my favorite restaurant in Nairobi, Talisman. This artist was having his artwork on display and our group bought 2, including this incredible depiction of African wild dogs on the hunt.

One of the paintings that caught my eye.