Giraffes present unique welfare challenges in captivity due to their size, social complexity, and specific dietary and physical needs that are difficult to meet in conventional zoo environments.
Giraffe welfare in captivity centres on three interconnected challenges: social complexity, feeding behaviour, and musculoskeletal health. Giraffes in inadequate social groups may show increased aggression, stereotypic behaviours, or social withdrawal. Provision of browse — tree branches and leaves that require manipulation and overhead reaching — is both nutritional and behavioural necessity. Without sufficient browse, giraffes spend abnormally long periods at ground-level feeding stations, which is associated with increased risk of regurgitation and oesophageal problems. The long legs and specific anatomy of giraffes make joint disease a significant welfare concern; deep, soft substrates in sleeping areas and access to varied terrain reduce musculoskeletal stress.