Event to celebrate zoo giraffe’s life
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Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot is inviting the community to come together on Saturday, Oct. 10, and Sunday, Oct. 11, for a special celebration honoring the extraordinary life of Kianga, the zoo's beloved giraffe matriarch. The celebration will be held during the zoo’s normal hours 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
According to zoo information, at 26 years old, Kianga has lived an extraordinary life, far surpassing the average life expectancy of about 21 years for giraffes in human care. Over the years, she has become a cherished member of the Roosevelt Park Zoo family, touching the lives of generations of guests with her gentle spirit, graceful presence and unique personality
As Kianga enters the final chapter of her life, the zoo is choosing to celebrate with her and for her while she is still here.
"We wanted to give our community an opportunity to celebrate Kianga while she can still feel the love and support of the people whose lives she has touched," Roosevelt Park Zoo Director Dr. Logan Wood said. "There is something incredibly meaningful about taking the time to say thank you, share memories and celebrate a life while that person – or, in this case, animal - is still here to receive it."
Throughout her life, Kianga has been surrounded by dedicated animal care and veterinary professionals who have adapted her care as she aged, carefully monitoring her health, nutrition and enrichment while supporting her comfort and natural behaviors
Kianga's legacy extends well beyond Roosevelt Park Zoo. She gave birth to 11 calves. Each went on to live at other accredited zoos and contribute to the future of giraffe populations in human care. Through her offspring, her legacy will continue for generations.
The zoo encourages guests to visit during the celebration weekend, spend time with Kianga, share their favorite memories and take the opportunity to simply say thank you.
The zoo stated Kianga has been an ambassador, teacher, mother and gentle giant who helped countless people discover a love for giraffes and conservation. For those who have cared for her and known her best, she also has been a beloved personality and an irreplaceable part of the Roosevelt Park Zoo family.
This isn't goodbye, according to the zoo. It's a celebration.