Zoo Contact:  Kyle Shepherd
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
(O) 502-238-5331 (C) 502-744-5639  

Meet Nyasi (nee-YAH-see)!

Nyasi means “grass” in Swahili language. Giraffe inhabit the tall savanna grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa.

The Louisville Zoo asked fans and advocates to participate in naming its male giraffe calf, and the people have spoken. Neary 4,000 votes were cast from individuals throughout Kentucky and southern Indiana as well as 38 states plus the district of Columbia during a two-week voting period, with Nyasi emerging as the favorite by an 8-vote margin. This name was selected from three options that reflected both the calf’s spirited personality and the native habitats of Masai giraffes.

The Zoo welcomed Nyasi into the family on August 9, 2024. He is the offspring of doting mother, 7-year-old, Kianga, and towering father, 8-year-old Baridi.

The giraffe family can be seen daily in the giraffe yard. Guests can also watch the trio bond behind-the-scenes on the Zoo’s giraffe camera at louisvillezoo.org/giraffecam.

About Masai Giraffes

Masai giraffes, native to East Africa, are the largest subspecies of giraffe. They are distinguished by their irregular, star-shaped spots which are like a fingerprint and unique to each individual animal. The International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species categorizes giraffes as vulnerable.  Masai giraffe populations have declined by more than 50 percent in last 30 years due to habitat loss and poaching. The Louisville Zoo is committed to the conservation of this essential, iconic species through education, breeding programs, and support of preservation efforts in the wild.

Zoo Hours:

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (guests can stay until 6 p.m.) through Sept. 22, 2024. From Sept. 23, 2024 – March 14, 2025, hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guests exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is open year-round except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information.

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About the Louisville Zoo:

The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

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