Edinburgh Zoo's first giraffes in 15 years spotted outside

The first giraffes to arrive at Edinburgh Zoo for 15 years have been spotted outside together.

Gerald and Fennessy arrived at the zoo on Wednesday from West Midlands Safari Park and joined Ronnie and Arrow who arrived from Woburn Safari Park the previous day.

Staff said they are delighted to see the bachelor herd now starting to bond – with one more giraffe due over the weekend, completing the herd.

The Nubian giraffes will have some of the best views in the city from their brand-new hilltop home and will be gradually introduced to visitors over the coming weeks.

Arrow, Ronnie and Gerald at Edinburgh Zoo. RZSS via SWNS

The herd will need time with each other and get used to their new home before the giraffe house officially opens to the public in mid-June.

Jonathan Appleyard, hoofstock team leader at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “It is incredible to welcome giraffes back to Edinburgh Zoo and we are so excited to start introducing them to our charity’s members, patrons and visitors after they have settled in.

“Numbers of giraffes in the wild have declined by almost 30% since the 1980s due to habitat loss and poaching, so this is a really important opportunity for us to raise awareness and support the Giraffe Conservation Foundation’s work to save the species.

“Our brand-new giraffe house has been designed with high-level walkways which means visitors will be able to meet these wonderful creatures face-to-face, giving them an amazing opportunity to connect with nature and be inspired to join us in protecting them from extinction.

“As they are the tallest animals in the world, it is very likely visitors will be able to spot our giraffes exploring their outdoor areas before we are officially open to the public.

“We are so grateful to Glenmorangie and everyone who donated to help build our giraffe house and support our partnership with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.”