27 May 2011
Giraffe Ajali meets new friends

After four weeks in quarantine, young Ajali met new friends in the Lower Savannah at Werribee Open Range Zoo today.

He was finally introduced to the five other giraffe, several rhinos, zebra, antelope and ostrich this morning. Introductions went smoothly but keepers will keep a close eye on the new family member to ensure he continues his smooth transition.

Young Ajali has been settling in well at Werribee Open Range Zoo after his 4,000 kilometre road trip across the Nullabor from Perth a month ago.

Keepers say Ajali will be sure to get a few extra treats on Sunday when he celebrates his first birthday.

Ajali, meaning destiny in Swahili, is a Rothschild giraffe, the most endangered giraffe subspecies with only a few hundred found in Kenya and Uganda.

Keep watching for more photos of Ajali's setting in period over the coming weeks!