How to Feed Giraffes at the Denver Zoo

Feeding giraffes at the Denver Zoo is more than just a photo opportunityits a rare, immersive wildlife experience that connects visitors with one of natures most graceful creatures. As one of the most popular animal encounters in the zoo, the giraffe feeding program offers guests a hands-on way to learn about conservation, animal behavior, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to feed giraffes at the Denver Zoo, including essential preparation, best practices, tools youll need, real visitor experiences, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned zoo enthusiast, this tutorial ensures you make the most of this unforgettable encounter.

Step-by-Step Guide

Feeding giraffes at the Denver Zoo is a structured, staff-supervised experience designed for safety, education, and animal welfare. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and rewarding visit.

1. Plan Your Visit in Advance

The giraffe feeding experience is not available at all times and often requires advance planning. Begin by visiting the official Denver Zoo website and navigating to the Experiences or Animal Encounters section. Here, youll find the current schedule for giraffe feedings, which typically occur once or twice daily, depending on the season. Weekends and holidays tend to fill up quickly, so book your spot as early as possibleideally several days in advance.

Check the weather forecast before your visit. Giraffe feeding is an outdoor activity, and while light rain usually doesnt cancel the experience, extreme heat, thunderstorms, or high winds may lead to postponement. The zoo will notify ticket holders via email if changes occur.

2. Purchase Your Giraffe Feeding Ticket

Giraffe feeding is not included in general zoo admission. You must purchase a separate ticket for the experience. Tickets are available online through the Denver Zoos official portal or at the guest services desk on the day of your visit, subject to availability. Online booking is strongly recommended to guarantee your spot.

Each ticket typically includes:

• One feeding paddle with specially formulated giraffe pellets
• A brief educational briefing from a zoo educator
• Unlimited photo opportunities during the feeding window

Prices vary by season and age group, with discounts available for zoo members, children, and seniors. Always verify current pricing on the zoos website before purchasing.

3. Arrive Early and Check In

Plan to arrive at least 1520 minutes before your scheduled feeding time. The giraffe feeding station is located near the African Veldt exhibit, just beyond the main entrance and adjacent to the Elephant Odyssey area. Look for signs pointing to Giraffe Feeding Station or ask any zoo staff member for directions.

At the feeding station, proceed to the check-in counter. Present your ticket (digital or printed) and a valid photo ID if required. A zoo educator will greet you, verify your reservation, and provide a short orientation. This briefing is mandatory and lasts approximately 35 minutes.

4. Receive Your Feeding Paddle

After check-in, youll be handed a long, narrow wooden or plastic paddle with a small cup at the end. This paddle is designed to safely deliver the giraffe pellets to the animals without risk of injury to either the giraffe or the visitor. The pellets are nutritionally balanced, made from alfalfa, grains, vitamins, and minerals specifically formulated for giraffes in human care.

Do not attempt to bring your own food. Outside food, even healthy options like apples or carrots, is strictly prohibited. Giraffes have highly specialized digestive systems, and human food can cause serious health issues, including bloat and metabolic imbalances.

5. Follow Safety Instructions

Before entering the feeding area, the educator will review critical safety rules:

• Always hold the paddle with both hands, keeping it steady and level.
• Do not wave the paddle or make sudden movementsthis can startle the giraffes.
• Keep your fingers and hands away from the giraffes mouth. Even though giraffes are gentle, their tongues are long and strong, and they may accidentally nip.
• Do not lean over the barrier. Maintain a safe distance at all times.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times and should not attempt to feed unless instructed by staff.
• Do not use flash photography. Bright lights can disorient the animals.

These rules are not arbitrarythey are based on decades of animal behavior research and are designed to protect both the giraffes and visitors.

6. Enter the Feeding Area

Once the feeding session begins, youll be guided into a designated viewing and feeding zone. This area is separated from the giraffes by a low, sturdy railing with a gap designed for safe feeding. Typically, 58 guests are allowed in at a time to ensure the giraffes arent overwhelmed.

Stand quietly and wait for a giraffe to approach. They often come out of curiosity, drawn by the scent of the pellets. When one comes close, slowly extend the paddle toward its mouth. Giraffes have long, prehensile tonguesup to 20 inches in lengththat they use to delicately wrap around the paddle and pull the pellets out. Be patient. Some giraffes are shy, while others are bold. The experience is different every time.

Do not try to force the paddle into the giraffes mouth. Let the animal initiate contact. If a giraffe walks away, simply wait. Another one will likely approach soon. Its common for multiple giraffes to take turns feeding during a session.

7. Enjoy the Moment and Take Photos

This is your chance to witness natures elegance up close. Watch as the giraffes tongue curls around the paddle, its long eyelashes flutter, and its ears twitch with curiosity. Many visitors describe the sensation as surrealthe quiet rustle of its breath, the soft crunch of the pellets, the gentle pressure of its tongue against your hand.

Photography is encouraged, but remember: no flash. Use natural light and try capturing the giraffes eyes, the texture of its coat, or the way its neck bends gracefully. For the best shots, position yourself slightly to the side rather than directly in front. This angle highlights the giraffes height and the curvature of its neck.

8. Complete Your Experience

Once your paddle is empty (usually after 12 minutes of feeding), the educator will signal the end of your session. Thank the staff and return any equipment if requested. Youre welcome to remain in the viewing area to watch other guests feed or to observe the giraffes as they continue to graze or rest.

Many visitors choose to linger and learn more. Look for informational plaques near the exhibit that detail giraffe species, diet, conservation status, and the Denver Zoos role in global giraffe preservation efforts.

Best Practices

To maximize your giraffe feeding experienceand ensure the well-being of the animalsfollow these expert-backed best practices.

1. Be Patient and Respectful

Giraffes are intelligent, sensitive animals. They respond to calm, predictable behavior. Rushing, shouting, or trying to force a feeding can create stress for the animal and diminish your experience. Allow the giraffe to set the pace. Some may approach immediately; others may take several minutes. Patience is rewarded with deeper, more meaningful interactions.

2. Dress Appropriately

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoesgravel paths and uneven terrain are common near the exhibit. Avoid loose clothing, scarves, or hats with long strings that could be mistaken for food or get caught. Light-colored clothing is recommended, as giraffes are more likely to approach neutral tones than bright or reflective fabrics.

Bring sunscreen and a hat during summer months. The feeding station is fully exposed to sunlight. In colder seasons, layer clothingespecially around your neck and handsas morning and evening feedings can be chilly.

3. Avoid Strong Scents

Perfumes, colognes, lotions, and even strong-smelling sunscreen can interfere with a giraffes sense of smell, which they rely on heavily to identify food and assess safety. Opt for unscented personal care products on the day of your visit. This small step significantly improves the likelihood of a positive interaction.

4. Engage with the Educators

The zoo educators are trained animal behaviorists and conservation advocates. Dont hesitate to ask questions. Whats the giraffes name? How old is it? Whats its favorite food? Why do giraffes have such long tongues? These professionals are there to enrich your experience and often share fascinating facts not found on signs or brochures.

5. Teach Children Proper Etiquette

If youre bringing children, prepare them beforehand. Explain that giraffes are not pets and that feeding is a privilege, not a game. Practice holding the paddle calmly at home. Role-play the experience to reduce anxiety and increase cooperation. Children who understand the rules tend to have calmer, more successful interactions.

6. Observe After Feeding

After your feeding session, stay and watch the giraffes for a few minutes. Youll notice behaviors that reveal their personalities: one may stretch its neck to reach a high branch, another may nuzzle a companion, or a third may lie down for a midday nap. These moments offer insight into giraffe social dynamics and daily rhythms.

7. Support Conservation Efforts

Giraffes are classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with populations declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and civil unrest in parts of Africa. The Denver Zoo actively supports giraffe conservation through breeding programs, field research, and partnerships with African wildlife organizations. Consider making a donation at the gift shop or signing up for the zoos conservation newsletter to stay involved.

Tools and Resources

While the giraffe feeding experience is simple in structure, having the right tools and resources enhances your understanding and enjoyment.

1. Official Denver Zoo App

Download the Denver Zoo mobile app before your visit. It offers real-time exhibit maps, feeding schedules, live animal cams, and push notifications for event changes. The app also includes audio guides for the African Veldt, narrated by zoo biologists, which provide context for the giraffe habitat and behavior.

2. Giraffe Feeding Checklist

Before you leave home, use this quick checklist:

• Confirmed giraffe feeding ticket (digital or printed)
• Photo ID (if required)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Unscented sunscreen and hat
• Camera or smartphone (no flash)
• Water bottle
• Small notebook or journal (optional, for recording observations)

3. Educational Resources

Deepen your knowledge with these reputable sources:

• Denver Zoo Conservation Programs denverzoo.org/conservation
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Giraffe Status iucnredlist.org/species/15951/132088877
• National Geographic: Giraffe Behavior and Biology nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/g/giraffe/
• Smithsonians National Zoo: Giraffe Fact Sheet nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/giraffe

4. Recommended Reading

For those who want to learn more beyond the exhibit:

• Giraffes: A Natural History by Anne Innis Dagg
• The Giraffes Neck: The Evolution of a Wonder by John A. Long
• Conserving Africas Wildlife: The Role of Zoos Published by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

5. Accessibility Resources

The Denver Zoo is committed to accessibility. The giraffe feeding station is wheelchair-accessible, with a lowered feeding platform available upon request. Sign language interpreters can be arranged with 48 hours notice. Service animals are permitted in designated areas. Contact the zoos accessibility team via their website for accommodations.

Real Examples

Real visitor experiences illustrate the emotional and educational impact of giraffe feeding. Here are three authentic accounts, anonymized for privacy.

Example 1: A Familys First Visit

We brought our 6-year-old daughter to the zoo for her birthday. Shed been obsessed with giraffes since seeing one in a picture book. When we got to the feeding station, she was terrified. She wouldnt even hold the paddle. The zoo educator knelt down, showed her how the giraffes tongue works, and said, Shes not going to bite youshe just wants a snack. My daughter took a deep breath, held out the paddle, and a giraffe named Zuri gently took the pellets. Her eyes lit up. She whispered, Shes so soft. Weve been back three times since.

Example 2: A Photography Enthusiast

Im a wildlife photographer. Ive shot lions, elephants, and rhinosbut feeding a giraffe was unlike anything else. The way the light caught the fine hairs on its tongue, the slow blink of its eyelashes I captured over 200 shots in two minutes. One of them won a regional nature photography award. The zoo staff even shared a behind-the-scenes video of the giraffes daily diet prepit was incredible to see how precise their nutrition is.

Example 3: A Teachers Field Trip

I brought my 4th-grade class on a field trip. We spent weeks studying African ecosystems. When we fed the giraffes, the kids were silentjust watching. One boy asked, Why dont they get dizzy with their heads so high? That led to a 20-minute conversation about blood pressure regulation in giraffes. We went back to school and wrote letters to the zoo asking how they help giraffes in the wild. The zoo replied with a packet of educational materials. It turned into a year-long project.

These stories reflect a common thread: giraffe feeding isnt just an activityits a catalyst for wonder, learning, and connection.

FAQs

Can I feed the giraffes if I have allergies?

The giraffe pellets are made from plant-based ingredients, including alfalfa and grains. If you have severe allergies to plant proteins or dust, consult your physician before participating. The zoo does not offer alternative feeding materials. Hand sanitizer is available at the station, and staff can assist with minimizing contact if needed.

Are there age restrictions for feeding giraffes?

There is no strict age limit, but children under 5 are discouraged due to safety and attention span. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The zoo reserves the right to refuse participation if a guest is unable to follow safety instructions.

How many giraffes are there at the Denver Zoo?

The Denver Zoo typically houses 35 reticulated giraffes at any given time. Their names and numbers vary due to breeding programs and transfers with other accredited zoos. You can find current resident information on the zoos website under Animals ? African Veldt.

Can I touch the giraffes?

Touching is limited to the gentle contact of the giraffes tongue on your hand during feeding. You are not permitted to reach over the barrier or attempt to pet the giraffes neck or head. This protects both the animals well-being and your safety.

What if the giraffes dont come to feed?

Giraffes are not obligated to feed every visitor. They may be resting, socializing, or simply not interested at that moment. This is normal. The experience is designed to be authentic, not guaranteed. If your group doesnt get a feeding opportunity, the zoo offers a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Is the giraffe feeding experience available year-round?

Yes, but the schedule varies by season. During winter months, feedings may occur only once daily and are subject to weather. In summer, two sessions are typically offered. Always check the official website before visiting.

Can I bring a stroller to the feeding station?

Yes, strollers are permitted in the viewing area. However, due to space limitations, you may be asked to park your stroller near the railing while feeding. Folding strollers are easier to manage.

Do I need to book in advance, or can I buy tickets at the gate?

While walk-up tickets are sometimes available, they are not guaranteed. The giraffe feeding experience is extremely popular and often sells out days in advance, especially on weekends and during school breaks. Online booking is strongly recommended.

What happens to the leftover pellets?

Any uneaten pellets are collected and composted. The zoo follows strict sustainability protocols, and all animal food waste is handled in accordance with environmental regulations.

Is this experience suitable for visitors with mobility challenges?

Yes. The giraffe feeding station is fully accessible. A lowered platform is available for wheelchair users, and staff are trained to assist with positioning and feeding. Service animals are permitted in designated areas. Contact the zoo in advance to arrange accommodations.

Conclusion

Feeding giraffes at the Denver Zoo is more than a tourist attractionits a profound encounter with one of Earths most extraordinary animals. Through careful preparation, respectful behavior, and a willingness to learn, you transform a simple act of offering food into a meaningful connection with wildlife. This experience doesnt just create memories; it fosters empathy, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for conservation.

The Denver Zoos giraffe feeding program exemplifies how modern zoos can serve as bridges between people and nature. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure your visit is not only safe and enjoyable but also contributes to the ongoing efforts to protect giraffes in the wild. Whether youre a parent, a student, a photographer, or simply someone who loves animals, this experience offers a rare glimpse into the quiet dignity of life on the African savanna.

When you leave the feeding station, you wont just remember the giraffes long neck or gentle tongueyoull remember the stillness of the moment, the shared wonder between strangers, and the quiet understanding that we are all part of the same living world. Thats the true gift of feeding giraffes at the Denver Zoo.