Giraffes in zoological facilities present unique welfare challenges due to their extraordinary height, complex social needs, and specialized nutritional requirements.
Giraffe welfare in captivity requires attention to their unique physiological and social requirements. Hard substrates cause progressive foot and joint problems that are a primary source of chronic welfare compromise. Elevated feeding stations that allow natural head-height feeding, deep substrate including sand for hoof health, and compatible social groups are the foundations of welfare-positive giraffe management. Cognitive enrichment that engages their naturally curious and investigative behavior reduces stereotypic oral behaviors. Given the declining wild giraffe population, zoo conservation programs carry particular responsibility to maintain individual welfare while contributing to species survival.