The Brevard Zoo has announced two pregnancies among its Masai giraffes, marking a significant event for the zoo and conservation efforts. Tisa, a 3-year-old female, is expecting her first calf later this fall, while Kumi, a 12-year-old, has entered her summer birthing window after a year-long pregnancy. Both animals are under close care at the zoo’s facility in Palm Bay.
The pregnancies were confirmed by the zoo’s animal care team, which shared updates on social media July 17. Tisa’s due date has not been specified, but the team said her pregnancy is progressing normally. Kumi’s birthing window aligns with the species’ typical summer calving season. This is the first giraffe birth at the zoo since 2020, according to officials.
Masai giraffes are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with habitat loss and human activity threatening their survival in Africa. The zoo’s breeding program is part of a global effort to stabilize the species. Zoo staff said the births will provide valuable data for conservationists studying giraffe reproduction and health.
The zoo has not disclosed names for the upcoming calves but plans to share updates as the due dates near. Visitors can observe Tisa and Kumi in the zoo’s African Savanna exhibit, which opened in 2019. The facility houses 15 giraffes, including other Masai and reticulated species.
Zoo director Sarah Mitchell said the pregnancies are a testament to the institution’s work in animal care and conservation. ‘These births are a win for our team and for the species,’ she said in a statement. The zoo expects the calves to be born within the next six months.