- Young giraffe Tambi has safely arrived in Perth after travelling from Melbourne Zoo
- Newest arrival strengthens Perth Zoo's role in the regional giraffe breeding program
- Tambi supports future plans for the zoo's expanded African Savannah precinct
Perth Zoo's giraffe herd has welcomed an important new addition, with young male Tambi safely arriving in Western Australia after a 3,300-kilometre journey from Melbourne Zoo.
Tambi, whose name means 'noodle' in Swahili, travelled across Australia in a specially designed giraffe trailer accompanied by his experienced Melbourne Zoo carers.
Since arriving, Tambi has been settling into Perth Zoo's giraffe habitat, where he will complete his quarantine period alongside the all-female herd.
The confident one-year-old giraffe joins Perth Zoo as part of the regional breeding program of the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia.
Earlier this year, the Cook Labor Government announced an investment of $20 million for the zoo's African Savannah expansion as part of the Master Plan 2040. The expansion will transform the former elephant habitat into a larger, immersive landscape for giraffes, zebras and ostriches.
Plans also include a modern giraffe barn that will improve animal welfare and healthcare training opportunities, while providing visitors with the chance to come eye-to-eye with giraffes and gain a glimpse into areas traditionally hidden behind the scenes.
The expansion, together with Tambi's arrival, will help Perth Zoo build on its strong record in the regional giraffe breeding program. Since 1995, it has welcomed 12 giraffe calves.
Tambi's arrival marks an exciting milestone for Perth Zoo and provides a glimpse of the future of the African Savannah precinct. As the zoo continues to evolve under its Master Plan 2040, visitors can look forward to even more opportunities to connect with wildlife and support conservation.
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"Tambi's arrival is very exciting for Perth Zoo and the Western Australian community.
"We're delighted to welcome him safely to his new home and thank the dedicated teams at Perth Zoo and Melbourne Zoo who worked together to make his journey a success.
"In the coming years, Tambi will play an important role in Perth Zoo's giraffe breeding program, helping secure the future of these iconic animals in Australasian zoos.
"His arrival comes at an exciting time for the zoo as we invest in a major expansion of the African Savannah precinct, creating even more opportunities for visitors to connect with wildlife and learn about conservation.
"Perth Zoo has a proud record of giraffe breeding success and Tambi's arrival is another important step in building on that achievement for future generations."
As stated by South Perth MLA Geoff Baker:
"Tambi the giraffe has arrived at Perth Zoo, and I'm delighted.
"I've always wanted to meet someone to whom I could talk to eye to eye, and it turns out all it took was a giraffe. I don't think he'll be impressed, but I'm thrilled.
"So bring the family down. There are new animals, new enclosures, and a zoo that's got big plans.
"Tambi's the newest act at Perth Zoo, but there's plenty to see."
