Visitors to London Zoo are in for a towering treat this autumn! A 12-foot-tall giraffe named Wilfred has arrived in the city, chauffeured in a custom “giraffemobile.” Wilfred, a 22-month-old reticulated giraffe, made the journey from Whipsnade Zoo to London in a specialized vehicle designed to accommodate his long neck, ahead of his upcoming move to a new home in France.
For now, Wilfred will enjoy life in London, reuniting with his half-sister Nuru at the zoo. Both giraffes were fathered by 12-year-old Bashu at Whipsnade Zoo. Wilfred’s stay is a part of the European breeding program aimed at protecting endangered species like the reticulated giraffe, whose populations are threatened by habitat loss in East Africa.
“Wilfred is reaching an age where it’s time for him to become the patriarch of his own herd. While we prepare for his move to France, he’ll settle into his new paddock here at London Zoo and spend time with Nuru and our giraffe Molly.” London Zoo’s giraffe keeper, Gemma Metcalf, shares,
Guests visiting London Zoo this autumn can see Wilfred and over 10,000 other animals up close, making it a perfect destination for a family adventure. To learn more or plan your visit, check out www.londonzoo.org.