A young male giraffe has a new home at the Peoria Zoo.
Fitzniklas, called Fitz by zoo staff, recently moved to Peoria from the herd at the Memphis Zoo. He’s just over a year old and, after a standard quarantine period for new animals, will join the zoo’s two resident female giraffes, Vivian and Emy.
According to a release from the Peoria Zoo, Fitz’s move is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival exam, which allows accredited zoos around the country to collaborate on efforts to preserve healthy, genetically diverse populations of endangered species like the reticulated giraffe.
The Peoria Zoo passed an inspection and re-accreditation process late last year.
“Every animal at Peoria Zoo helps us tell a bigger story and Fitz is no exception,” said Peoria Zoo director Max Lakes. “His playful spirit will capture hearts, while his journey here reminds us of the importance of thoughtful animal care and the role zoos play in protecting these majestic species.”
Fitz is expected to leave quarantine in the next week and join Vivian and Emy in the Peoria Zoo’s giraffe enclosure.
