As Wiltshire basks in unseasonably warm April sunshine, a particularly elegant set of locals has stepped out to enjoy the rays—Longleat’s majestic giraffes have returned to their outdoor stomping ground, just in time for the Easter break.
The ‘tower’ of giraffes, as a group is affectionately known, can now be seen roaming the East African Reserve at Longleat Safari Park. Their return to the open landscape marks a seasonal shift that both staff and visitors look forward to every year.
Throughout the colder months, the giraffes are housed indoors for their wellbeing. Their purpose-built quarters are equipped with cutting-edge climate control to maintain a constant, giraffe-friendly 22°C. This attention to detail ensures the animals are kept in optimal comfort until conditions are safe for them to venture out.
Darren Beasley, Head of Animal Operations at Longleat, described the moment they rejoined the reserve: “The pictures say it all—there’s a real joy about them. It’s incredible to watch them gallop out, almost like lambs, stretching those long legs and reuniting with the zebras and ostriches.”
Native to the African savannah, giraffes are highly sensitive to temperature changes. As the season progresses, visitors will have the rare chance to feed them directly from a specially constructed viewing pier overlooking the reserve—a memorable highlight planned for the warmer months of May onwards.
For those heading to Longleat this Easter, the giraffes can be viewed both from the drive-through safari and the African Village walkthrough. The Park also offers VIP behind-the-scenes experiences, including access to the giraffe house where guests can meet these gentle giants up close.
Did You Know?
Species: Giraffa camelopardalis
Group name: A ‘tower’
Conservation status: Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List
Average height: Between four and five and a half metres
Diet: Herbivorous – and partial to the leafy treats offered by visitors come summertime
With brighter days ahead, Longleat’s giraffes are certainly putting a spring in everyone’s step this Easter.
