SAN DIEGO ZOO GIRAFFE EXHIBIT

Architects Mosher Drew designed a new outdoor exhibit enclosure and related facilities for the new giraffe exhibit at the San Diego Zoo. This 23,000-square-foot exhibit also accommodates gazelles and antelopes.

The structure is a 53’ x 29’ wood clad steel frame building consisting of two stalls, a catch pen, and a squeeze alley where the animals are held in position during treatments or vaccinations. These spaces are connected to tall sliding doors which are operated by intricate ropes and pulleys to manage the movement of the animals, protect the keepers, and keep the animals safe. The exhibit includes a special interactive area where Zoo visitors can feed the giraffes.

The giraffe enclosure has been designed within a eucalyptus grove and embellished with artificial stone rock formations. These features provide unobstructed views into the enclosure while containing and protecting the animals.

Because giraffes are very delicate, all areas of the enclosure were carefully designed to ensure that the exhibit was free of hazardous obstacles.