Giraffes Frolic in Early Spring Weather at Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield, IL - You know spring must nearly be here when the giraffes at Brookfield Zoo are allowed outside in the Habitat Africa! The Savannah exhibit.

Animal programs staff let the giraffes take full advantage of Tuesday's warm weather, allowing them access to the outdoor habitat for the first time this year, according to the Chicago Zoological Society, which manages Brookfield Zoo.

Watching the giraffes enjoy outdoor excursions is an exciting event, and zoo guests Tuesday were able to see 2-year-old Potoka running and prancing around the yard.

Other members of the herd — Arnieta, 10, Jasiri, 11, and Mithra, 26 — didn’t rejoice in quite the same way, but they undoubtedly enjoyed the warm weather, as well, according to CZS.

Reticulated giraffes are native to northeast Kenya in Africa, so outdoor temperatures at the zoo need to be at least 45-50 degrees for them to go outside, according to CZS. During the winter months, visitors can see the giraffes indoors.

Photos courtesy of the Chicago Zoological Society.