Mesker Park Zoo Will Transfer Giraffe in October
The Evansville zoo is moving Clementine to support giraffe conservation efforts while welcoming a new companion.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Wildlife
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Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden will transfer its female giraffe, Clementine, to another facility as part of a conservation recommendation. A new male giraffe is expected to arrive in Evansville later this month to join current resident Kijana.
Why it matters
This move is a recommendation from the AZA Giraffe Species Survival Plan to help the species thrive in human care. The arrival of a new male giraffe will provide a much-needed social companion for Kijana.
The zoo is following a mandate from the AZA Giraffe Species Survival Plan to adjust its herd. The institution currently maintains a focus on ensuring the long-term health and social structure of its giraffe population.
The players
Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden
An Evansville institution that manages diverse wildlife and participates in national conservation breeding programs.
AZA Giraffe Species Survival Plan
A collaborative program that manages species populations across accredited zoos to ensure genetic diversity and animal well-being.
The details
The transfer process follows standard protocols for zoo animal relocation, ensuring the welfare of the giraffes throughout the move. Once the new male giraffe arrives in Evansville, he will complete a mandatory quarantine period before being introduced to Kijana through a slow, carefully monitored process.
Timeline
Clementine has been at Mesker Park Zoo since 2018.
A new male giraffe will arrive at the zoo in October 2026.
The Home Front
This move aligns with the AZA Species Survival Plan to maintain healthy animal populations in human care. Zoos across the country use these centralized breeding and transfer strategies to support the longevity of species housed in modern, accredited facilities.
Visitors to the Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden can anticipate seeing a new male giraffe following his arrival and subsequent quarantine period. Keep an eye on the zoo's official communications for updates regarding when the new male and Kijana will be viewable in their habitat.
The takeaway
Zoos rely on structured management programs to maintain the health and social vitality of their animals. If you have questions about the timing of the new arrival, check the official Mesker Park Zoo announcements for the most current updates on the new male giraffe's public debut.
Further reading
For more on local conservation efforts, check the Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WTVW 7 Evansville.
Live Poll
Do you support prioritizing species survival plans even if it means moving long-term local zoo animals?
