Can you help rescued baby giraffe Shuri?

Baby giraffe Shuri has been growing in both stature and personality since arriving at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) in August last year. She is now a far cry from the fragile little soul that was found clinging to life. Here is a short summary of her journey so far.

A change of scenery

Initially, she was kept in quarantine at the animal clinic area so that she could be closely monitored for any sudden change in her condition, which could have resulted a life-or-death situation requiring urgent intervention. After a couple of months, she was deemed stable and healthy enough to be moved to her own boma with a wider area on which to roam. Prior to being moved, she needed to be tested for Tuberculosis, which is highly contagious and deadly. Once given the all-clear, she was moved and settled into her new space, which allowed her to see the other animals at the Centre.

Animal introductions

The next phase of her journey involved introducing her to animal friends, as it became evident that she needed some company. After careful consideration, it was decided to introduce her to her neighbours, rescued rhino Esmé and pedi sheep Mielie. After allowing them to first set eyes on each other through the adjoining wooden fence, they were introduced more closely when the gate separating their bomas was opened to allow them to move between both spaces. While they do spend time together, they are not yet firm friends, but we hope that this will change soon. Unlike humans, animals are in no hurry and do things at their own pace.

Water challenges and a battle of wills

While Shuri is still given her daily milk bottles to ensure that she receives the nutrition her growing body requires, she also needs to take in an adequate amount of water - something she doesn’t enjoy. The curators go to great lengths to encourage her to drink from her water trough, even scooping up what they can to her mouth, but she is simply not interested and turns her nose up so-to-speak. In the wild, water is the only choice, and Shuri needs to develop a taste for it. A plan was devised to replace her midday milk bottle feed with water instead. This has been working so far and she guzzles down every drop with enthusiasm. The next phase will be getting her to bend down and drink on her own from her water trough.

In her short life thus far, Shuri has certainly demonstrated both her fighting and feisty spirit and we look forward to sharing many more of her milestones as she grows into a tall and graceful young lady.