Giraffes in zoos face unique welfare challenges related to their size, social complexity, and specific behavioral needs, while zoo populations play an increasingly important conservation role.
Meeting giraffe welfare needs in captivity requires significant investment in space, social housing, browse provision, and environmental complexity. Giraffes need height for natural feeding posture, stable social groups, and varied substrates. Thermal regulation is challenging in temperate climates. Welfare assessment tools are being developed to measure giraffe positive emotional states and identify chronic stress. Good zoo practice now emphasizes naturalistic behavior and social stability.