A day backstage - Giraffes
So at the Nashville Zoo again. My friend and I decided to try the backstage tours this time. You get to select what animal you want to see (Rhino, Giraffe, Anteater, Cassowary, Red Panda, Sloth, Aardvark, or Giant Tortoise) or the Veterinary Clinic, and you get the chance to see what goes on behind the scenes. All proceeds go towards the conservation of the animal you choose (so the money we paid went towards the conservation for giraffes) and you don’t need to buy a separate ticket to be in the zoo as your pass comes with a zoo ticket. Now these tours for the animals are selective in days at selective times, like the Giraffe’s are on Thursday to Sunday at 1. Also majority of the animals (besides the Giraffe, Rhino, Sloth and Vet Clinic) are seasonal. You also get to interact with the animal, whether it’s a feeding experience or a hands-on experience (the giraffe’s are skittish to people’s touch so we only got to feed them but they are working with their brand new male on touching so that hopefully people can get a chance to also touch them, even if it’s just for a second).
Because the Nashville Zoo is building their clouded leopard exhibit, the giraffe’s are off exhibit. So that’s why my friend and I chose to do the giraffes. But you get a small chance to see some of the other animals on your way to the giraffe exhibit (but you have to squint to see them as majority are out on exhibit). If you ever get a chance to go to the Nashville Zoo while construction is still going on, I would consider trying either the Rhino or Giraffe. While the Rhinos are still accessible to the public, the main area of their exhibit is cut off and there’s only a small chance to can see them from the observation area. The only other time you get to really see them is if you go on the zip line as it goes on top of their exhibit. Not sure why the main exhibit is blocked off though as there is nothing on the website saying it’s closed.
But anyways enjoy the photos I took.
🦒 Giraffe Backstage Tour:
Price: $75 for members | $95 for non-members
Time: 45 minute tour, offered Thursday-Sunday at 1
Includes: Zoo admission and a feeding opportunity
Is wheelchair accessible with advance notice
Advance notice is necessary if plans change or will be coming in late
#lemon8diarychallenge #nashvillezoo #animaladventures #Lemon8Diary #summerdiary #lemon8challenge #lemon8contest
After my amazing Nashville Zoo giraffe backstage tour, I have to share even more about the feeding experience! It’s truly unlike anything else and completely worth getting that special 'BACKSTAGE PASS.' Seeing the giraffes up close, like the magnificent individuals from the 'MEET THE TOWER' poster (Tazama, Natha, Amira, Violet, Kendi), is just breathtaking. You hear about their personalities and how much care goes into their daily lives. When it comes to the actual feeding, it’s a moment you won't forget. They provide you with specific leafy greens, and you hold them out. Their tongues are surprisingly long and a distinct purplish-black color – definitely a cool sight! When they take the food, it’s a gentle, almost leathery touch, not slimy at all, which is what some people might expect. This is where you truly get an appreciation for the unique 'giraffe tongue' – perfectly adapted for stripping leaves from thorny branches in the wild. It’s an incredibly delicate yet powerful tool. The 'giraffe house' or backstage area itself is just as fascinating as the feeding. It’s not just a simple enclosure; it’s a meticulously designed space for their welfare and care. You get a glimpse into where they sleep, eat, and receive their daily enrichment. I saw the 'ENRICHMENT Masai Giraffe' poster, which really brought to life how much thought and effort goes into keeping them happy and healthy. The staff showed us some of the puzzles and items designed to stimulate their natural behaviors. You realize how much work goes into their daily routine, far beyond what visitors typically see from the main 'feeding platform' out front. If you're planning your own Nashville Zoo Giraffe Backstage Tour, here are a few more tips! First, definitely book in advance, especially since they are doing construction around the zoo. Arrive a little early to soak everything in and get oriented. Don't be afraid to ask the dedicated zookeepers questions – they are a wealth of knowledge and love sharing insights about their charges. They'll tell you all about the individual giraffes and their unique quirks. Even though the giraffes were a bit skittish about being touched during my visit, the feeding interaction is so personal and intimate. It’s an unforgettable look at these magnificent creatures and a wonderful way to directly support their conservation efforts. Knowing your tour fee goes straight to their care makes the experience even more meaningful. It's truly an immersive animal adventure you won't forget at the Nashville Zoo!
giraffes are so silly >w<