San Antonio Zoo Welcomes New Giraffe, Jasiri
The one-year-old female joins Waffles, Brayden, and Kicheko in the Naylor Savanna
SAN ANTONIO, TX — A new addition is turning heads and stretching necks at San Antonio Zoo as the zoo officially welcomes Jasiri, a one-year-old female giraffe, to its Naylor Savanna habitat.
Jasiri, whose name means “courageous” in Swahili, recently arrived from Tulsa Zoo and has already begun settling into her new home alongside fellow herd members Waffles, Brayden, and Kicheko.
Zoo officials describe Jasiri as confident, intelligent, and naturally curious. She has shown a strong desire to explore her surroundings and is especially motivated by food—traits that have helped her quickly adapt to new training routines and her environment.
Her arrival is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan®, a collaborative program designed to ensure the long-term survival of threatened and endangered species through responsible breeding and population management across accredited zoos.
“Every animal at San Antonio Zoo plays a role in connecting people to wildlife, and Jasiri is no exception,” said Tim Morrow, President and CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “She represents the future of her species and the impact accredited zoos can have on conservation. We’re thrilled for our community to meet her, form a connection, and be inspired to help protect giraffes in the wild.”
Guests can now visit Jasiri inside the giraffe barn within the Naylor Savanna, where she continues to acclimate. In the coming weeks, she is expected to join the rest of the herd in the outdoor habitat, offering visitors the chance to see her fully integrated into the group.
For those looking to take their experience even further, the zoo offers overnight stays at Spekboom Lodge, a private retreat located within the Naylor Savanna. Designed for small groups, the experience includes exclusive after-hours access, up-close animal encounters, and a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife in an immersive setting.
Jasiri’s arrival marks another step forward in San Antonio Zoo’s ongoing conservation efforts, while giving guests a new reason to visit and experience one of the world’s most iconic animals up close.
