Louisville Zoo Welcomes Masai Giraffe, Maned Wolf Return

The Louisville Zoo has welcomed two new animals: Josie, a 2-year-old Masai giraffe from the Greenville Zoo, and Jessie, a 7-year-old maned wolf from the Phoenix Zoo. Josie, noted for her sweet personality, unique preferences, and distinct stocky build with light blonde coloring, joins the zoo's Africa zone giraffe herd. Jessie, described as confident and fond of enrichment activities, marks the return of maned wolves to the zoo after a six-month absence following the previous wolf's passing. Both species are facing conservation challenges—Masai giraffes are classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching, while maned wolves are considered near threatened because of habitat destruction. Zoo officials highlight the importance of conservation and animal welfare, and visitors can occasionally see Jessie and enjoy feeding experiences with the giraffes. The zoo continues to prioritize both animal care and visitor engagement as part of its ongoing mission.