There’s a new star on the savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and he’s turning heads — even from 18 feet below. Say hello to Tucker, the newest baby giraffe to join the Kilimanjaro Safaris experience.
Tucker is a Masai giraffe, born to the beautiful and beloved Mara, who has been part of the Animal Kingdom herd since 2015. This marks her third calf, and you can already tell she’s a seasoned pro at motherhood. She’s often seen doting on Tucker as he begins to explore his new surroundings.
Guests riding through the Africa section of the park now have the rare opportunity to witness a newborn giraffe up close. From his long legs and curious eyes to the way he stays close to his mom while peeking around the savanna, Tucker is already melting hearts and leaving a big impression for such a little guy.
But Tucker’s arrival is more than just a feel-good story. His birth plays a significant role in a much bigger mission. The Masai giraffe is endangered, and Disney’s participation in the Species Survival Plan means every new calf matters. These carefully managed breeding programs are designed to help maintain healthy populations of endangered species — and Tucker is now a vital part of that future.
The team at Animal Kingdom works around the clock to make sure every animal has what it needs to thrive, and baby animals like Tucker receive extra attention during their earliest days. Disney’s animal care staff monitors his growth, feeding, and behavior to ensure he adjusts well to his new home.
What’s especially exciting is how seamlessly these conservation efforts are blended into the guest experience. When you board Kilimanjaro Safaris, you’re not just going on a ride — you’re stepping into a living, breathing wildlife preserve. And now, with Tucker joining the lineup, the ride has an extra dose of charm.
It’s hard not to fall in love with a giraffe calf that’s just learning to navigate his world. Seeing him trot beside his mom, stretch his neck toward the treetops, or take his first curious steps into the wider savanna is a reminder of what makes Animal Kingdom so special.
While Walt Disney World is known for its rides and characters, Animal Kingdom sets itself apart with moments like this. The magic isn’t manufactured — it’s natural. The connection guests feel to animals like Tucker goes beyond entertainment. It creates empathy, awareness, and maybe even a desire to help protect wildlife outside the parks.
Tucker’s birth is perfectly timed, too. With big transformations on the horizon for Animal Kingdom — including the highly anticipated Tropical Americas area coming to life — the park is continuing to evolve. But at its heart, it’s still about real animals and real stories. And right now, Tucker is the leading character.
So if you’re planning a trip to Animal Kingdom soon, don’t miss the chance to see this little giraffe in action. Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or just a casual guest looking for a magical moment, Tucker’s presence on the savanna is something worth seeing.
He may be the smallest one out there, but Tucker is leaving a huge impact already. And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.
