Giraffe Conservation T-Shirt Fundraiser

I am the Hoofed Animal Manager at Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde, Arizona. Kibo, one of our male reticulated giraffe, had such a profound effect on me as a park visitor ten years ago that I decided to alter my career path. I knew I wanted to learn everything I could about this species and inspire people to support conservation efforts. While I love all of the animals I work with, Kibo has always had a special place in my heart. Recently, I noticed that his hooves had become overgrown to the point of discomfort. Since Out of Africa provides large, naturalistic homes for all of our animals, regular hoof maintenance has never been a necessity. Overgrown hooves were a new development- for Kibo AND his keepers. I knew I had to figure out a way to help him. Through operant conditioning (training), I have been able to get him to place his foot on a block and curl it upside down so that we can file and shape it back to where it should be. He amazes me every day with his intelligence and the trust he puts in me as his care-taker. Working closely with this magnificent animal is humbling and inspiring. As someone who has had the privilege to work this closely with a 2000 lb. gentle giant, I can tell you that these animals are precious, and we all need to do whatever we can to preserve them for future generations. Wild giraffe populations need our help just like Kibo needs mine. Please purchase a T-shirt today and help support Giraffe Conservation Foundation's efforts all over the African continent.