Get ready to celebrate in style because Temba, Out of Africa Wildlife Park’s tallest (and probably most charming) resident, is turning six years old on January 23! At an impressive 16 feet tall and weighing in at 2,200 pounds, Temba is a towering testament to how amazing giraffes truly are. This birthday, we’re shining the spotlight on Temba, his unique personality, and some fascinating giraffe facts you might not know!

Meet Temba: The Gentle Giant

Temba is more than just a big guy—he’s a playful, food-motivated giraffe who loves cookies and chasing his keepers around (in a totally friendly way). His bond with his brother Mawenzi is heartwarming, showcasing the social side of these magnificent creatures. Thanks to his love of treats and his eagerness to engage, Temba trains exceptionally well, making him a star pupil at the park.

Why Giraffes Are So Amazing

In honor of Temba’s special day, here are some fun and fascinating giraffe facts that make these towering herbivores so incredible:

1. The Tallest Land Animals on Earth

Giraffes are the tallest mammals on the planet, with males averaging between 15 and 18 feet in height. Temba is right in the middle of that range, but as he grows, he might get even taller!

2. Tongues Built for the Job

A giraffe’s tongue can stretch up to 20 inches long and is prehensile, meaning it can grip objects. This helps them expertly pluck leaves from thorny acacia trees, their favorite snack. Plus, their tongues are dark purple to protect them from sunburn—nature is brilliant, isn’t it?

3. Necking Battles and Social Bonds

Male giraffes engage in “necking,” a form of sparring where they swing their necks at one another to establish dominance. But don’t worry—Temba’s relationship with Mawenzi is all about brotherly love, not rivalry.

4. Heart Power

Giraffes have oversized hearts, weighing up to 25 pounds, to pump blood up their long necks to their brains. Talk about a lot of love for Temba’s big birthday bash!

5. Running Giants

Despite their size, giraffes can run up to 35 miles per hour in short bursts. If Temba ever decided to race one of his keepers (while chasing them for cookies, of course), he might give them a serious run for their money.

Why Giraffe Conservation Matters

Giraffes are classified as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, with some subspecies critically endangered. Habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict are ongoing threats to their survival. By visiting Out of Africa Wildlife Park, you’re supporting the care and conservation of giraffes like Temba and raising awareness about their plight in the wild.

Final Thoughts

Temba’s birthday isn’t just a celebration of one extraordinary giraffe—it’s a reminder of the beauty and importance of all wildlife. So come join the party (Use code TEMBA6 for $4 off General Admission during the month of January 2025), share the love, and leave with a deeper appreciation for these incredible animals.