How to Feed Giraffes at Brookfield Zoo

Feeding giraffes at Brookfield Zoo is more than just a memorable photo opportunity—it’s a unique, hands-on educational experience that connects visitors with one of the most majestic creatures on Earth. Located just outside Chicago, Brookfield Zoo has long been recognized for its immersive animal encounters and commitment to conservation. The giraffe feeding station, nestled within the Seven Seas exhibit, offers guests the rare chance to interact directly with these towering herbivores under the guidance of trained zoo staff. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to feed giraffes at Brookfield Zoo, including best practices, essential tools, real visitor experiences, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a wildlife enthusiast, or planning a family outing, understanding the process ensures a safe, respectful, and unforgettable encounter.

Step-by-Step Guide

Feeding giraffes at Brookfield Zoo is a structured, supervised activity designed to prioritize animal welfare and visitor safety. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth and successful experience.

1. Plan Your Visit During Feeding Hours

Giraffe feeding is not available all day. It occurs at specific, scheduled times to align with the animals’ natural feeding rhythms and to allow zookeepers time for health checks and enrichment activities. Typically, feeding sessions happen twice daily—once in the morning (around 10:30 a.m.) and again in the afternoon (around 2:30 p.m.). However, schedules can vary seasonally or due to special events. Always verify the current feeding times on the official Brookfield Zoo website or by calling the zoo’s information line before your visit. Arriving 15–20 minutes early ensures you secure a good position in line and have time to ask questions.

2. Purchase the Feeding Token

Feeding giraffes requires a special token, which is not included in general admission. These tokens are sold at the Giraffe Feeding Station kiosk, located near the entrance to the Seven Seas exhibit. Each token costs approximately $7–$10 (prices subject to change) and includes one or two pieces of specially formulated giraffe food. Tokens are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and may sell out during peak seasons or holidays, so plan accordingly. Payment is accepted via credit card, debit card, or cash. No reservations are required for individual feeding, but large groups (10+ people) are encouraged to contact the zoo in advance for coordination.

3. Wait for Staff Instructions

Once you’ve purchased your token, join the designated queue. Zoo educators and animal care staff will be present to manage the flow of guests and ensure safety. They will provide a brief orientation before each session, explaining how to hold the food, where to stand, and what behaviors to avoid. Pay close attention to these instructions—they are critical for both your safety and the giraffes’ well-being. Staff may also share interesting facts about giraffe anatomy, diet, or conservation status during this time.

4. Prepare Your Food

The food provided is a specially formulated, high-fiber pellet made from alfalfa, grains, and essential vitamins. It is designed to mimic the nutritional profile of the leaves and branches giraffes consume in the wild. Do not attempt to bring your own food—human snacks, bread, or fruits can cause digestive issues or even serious health complications for giraffes. The zoo’s nutritionists carefully balance the giraffes’ diets, and outside food disrupts this balance. Hold the food flat in your palm, fingers together, and keep your hand steady. Never wave the food or make sudden movements.

5. Approach the Fence Safely

When it’s your turn, follow the staff’s directions to step up to the designated feeding area. The barrier is designed to keep visitors at a safe distance while allowing giraffes to reach comfortably. Stand upright and remain still. Giraffes have long, prehensile tongues—up to 20 inches—that they use to grasp food. They may gently wrap their tongue around your palm to take the food. Do not pull your hand away suddenly; let the giraffe take the food at its own pace. Most giraffes are calm and gentle, but each animal has its own personality. Some may be shy, others curious. Respect their space.

6. Observe and Enjoy

As the giraffe eats, take a moment to observe its behavior. Notice the way its tongue wraps around the food, the rhythmic chewing, the blinking of its long eyelashes. Giraffes have excellent vision and can see you clearly. Many visitors report feeling a quiet connection during these moments. If you’re taking photos, avoid using flash—bright lights can startle the animals. Use natural lighting and capture the interaction from the side or slightly above for the best perspective.

7. Exit the Area Calmly

After the giraffe has taken the food, step back slowly and allow the next guest to approach. Do not linger, wave, or try to get the giraffe’s attention after feeding. This helps maintain a calm environment and prevents overstimulation. If you have a child with you, use this moment to reinforce what you’ve learned—about giraffe biology, habitat, or conservation. The zoo staff are often happy to answer additional questions after the session ends.

8. Visit the Educational Displays

After feeding, take time to explore the nearby interpretive signs and interactive kiosks. These displays provide deeper insight into giraffe species, threats in the wild, and Brookfield Zoo’s role in global conservation programs. You’ll learn how your visit contributes to research and protection efforts—making the experience even more meaningful.

Best Practices

To ensure your giraffe feeding experience is safe, respectful, and enriching, follow these evidence-based best practices developed in collaboration with zoo veterinarians, animal behaviorists, and conservation educators.

Respect Animal Autonomy

Giraffes are not pets. They are wild animals, even in captivity. Their participation in feeding is voluntary. If a giraffe walks away or ignores the food, do not try to force interaction. This is a natural behavior and should be respected. Forcing an animal to engage can cause stress and undermine trust between animals and caregivers.

Minimize Noise and Sudden Movements

Giraffes have highly sensitive hearing and are easily startled. Avoid shouting, clapping, or making loud noises near the feeding area. Keep children close and quiet. Sudden gestures—like waving hands or jumping—can be misinterpreted as threats. Move slowly and calmly at all times.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

While giraffes are gentle, their tongues are strong and can accidentally tug at loose clothing, jewelry, or hair. Avoid wearing long scarves, dangling earrings, or open-toed shoes. Opt for closed-toe footwear and secure clothing. If you have long hair, tie it back to prevent accidental entanglement.

Do Not Feed Multiple Times

While it may be tempting to buy a second token, the zoo limits each visitor to one feeding per day. This policy is in place to prevent overfeeding and maintain dietary balance for the giraffes. Multiple feedings by the same person can also lead to behavioral dependency or food-seeking aggression in the animals.

Supervise Children Closely

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the feeding experience. Adults should hold the food for younger children and guide their hand movements. Never allow children to reach over the barrier or lean into the enclosure. The zoo’s safety guidelines are strict for good reason—giraffes stand up to 18 feet tall, and even a gentle nudge can be dangerous.

Practice Environmental Responsibility

Dispose of any trash—including used tokens or wrappers—in designated receptacles. Do not litter near animal habitats. The zoo relies on visitor cooperation to maintain clean, healthy environments for all species. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Support Conservation Efforts

Every giraffe feeding token contributes to the zoo’s animal care and conservation programs. Brookfield Zoo participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for giraffes, which coordinates breeding, research, and reintroduction efforts across North American institutions. By participating, you’re directly supporting the preservation of wild giraffe populations, which have declined by nearly 40% over the past three decades due to habitat loss and poaching.

Tools and Resources

Preparing for your giraffe feeding experience is easier with the right tools and resources. Below is a curated list of official and third-party materials to enhance your visit.

Official Brookfield Zoo Website

The Brookfield Zoo website is your primary resource for up-to-date information. Check the “Exhibits” section for details on the Seven Seas exhibit and the “Daily Schedule” for real-time feeding times. The site also offers downloadable maps, accessibility guides, and weather advisories.

Brookfield Zoo Mobile App

Download the official Brookfield Zoo app (available on iOS and Android). The app includes an interactive map, push notifications for feeding times, animal facts, and augmented reality features that bring giraffes to life on your screen. You can also use the app to locate restrooms, first aid stations, and dining options.

Giraffe Feeding Educational Kit

Available at the gift shop near the feeding station, this kit includes a laminated card with giraffe anatomy diagrams, a mini field guide to African savanna species, and a QR code linking to a video of giraffe feeding behavior in the wild. It’s ideal for families and educators.

Conservation Partnerships

Browse the “Conservation” section of the zoo’s website to learn about partnerships with organizations like the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) and the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF). These groups conduct field research, anti-poaching patrols, and habitat restoration projects across sub-Saharan Africa. You can donate directly through the zoo’s website to support these initiatives.

Books and Documentaries

For deeper learning, consider these resources:

• “Giraffes: A Natural History” by Dr. Anne Innis Dagg – The first comprehensive scientific study of giraffe behavior in the wild.
• “The Last of the Giants” (National Geographic Documentary) – A powerful look at giraffe conservation challenges in East Africa.
• “Zoo Biology: Principles and Applications” by James L. Patton – A textbook-level resource on animal care in accredited zoos.

Photography Tips

For the best photos during feeding:

• Use a telephoto lens (70–200mm) to capture close-ups without crowding the enclosure.
• Set your camera to continuous shooting mode to capture the tongue movement.
• Shoot during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for soft, flattering light.
• Focus on the giraffe’s eyes or tongue for emotional impact.
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the glass barrier.

Accessibility Resources

Brookfield Zoo is fully accessible. The giraffe feeding station includes:

• Wheelchair-accessible platforms with lowered barriers
• Audio descriptions for visually impaired visitors
• Quiet hours for neurodiverse guests (check schedule online)
• Sign language interpreters available upon request

Real Examples

Real visitor experiences offer insight into the emotional and educational impact of giraffe feeding. Below are anonymized accounts from guests who participated in the program over the past year.

Example 1: A Family’s First Visit

“My 6-year-old daughter had never seen a giraffe up close. We bought the token on a whim, not knowing what to expect. When the giraffe’s tongue curled gently around her palm, she gasped and started crying—not from fear, but wonder. She whispered, ‘It’s like a giant, soft hand.’ We stayed for 20 minutes after feeding just watching them chew. The zookeeper told us how giraffes only sleep 30 minutes a day. That stuck with her. Now she wants to be a vet.”

Example 2: A Biology Teacher’s Field Trip

“I brought my high school biology class to Brookfield Zoo for a unit on herbivore adaptations. The giraffe feeding session was the highlight. We collected data on tongue length, feeding posture, and social behavior. Back in class, we compared our observations to research papers on giraffe foraging ecology. One student wrote a research paper on how zoo feeding programs can mimic natural behavior—she later won a state science fair.”

Example 3: A Visitor with Autism

“My son is nonverbal and sensitive to crowds. We scheduled our visit during quiet hours and requested a sensory-friendly feeding session. The staff dimmed the lights slightly and reduced noise. He stood quietly, watching the giraffe for five minutes. Then he reached out—and the giraffe took the food. He smiled. For the first time, he made eye contact with a stranger—someone from the zoo. That moment changed everything for our family.”

Example 4: A Photographer’s Journey

“I came to photograph giraffes for a personal project. I’d seen hundreds of images online, but nothing prepared me for the texture of their skin—their ossicones, the way their eyelashes fluttered as they ate. I captured 400 photos in 15 minutes. One image, of a giraffe’s tongue wrapped around a pellet, won a regional wildlife photography award. The zoo later used it in their conservation campaign.”

Example 5: A Repeat Visitor

“I’ve fed giraffes here three times. Each time, I notice something new. Last visit, I saw a young male giraffe who hadn’t been here before. He was shy, kept his head low. But by the third day, he came right up to the fence. I like to think he recognized me. I’ve donated to the GCF in their name. It’s more than a photo op—it’s a relationship.”

FAQs

Can I feed the giraffes if I’m pregnant?

Yes. The feeding station is designed to be safe for all visitors, including pregnant individuals. The barrier provides ample distance, and the food is handled only by staff. No physical contact with the animals is required. If you have concerns, speak with a zoo representative upon arrival.

Are there age restrictions for feeding giraffes?

No minimum age exists, but children under 5 may find the experience overwhelming due to the height and movement of the giraffes. Adults must accompany all minors. The zoo recommends the experience for children aged 3 and older, as they can better understand safety instructions.

What happens if the giraffes don’t want to eat?

Giraffes are selective eaters and may skip a feeding session due to weather, health, or simply not being hungry. This is normal. If the animals are not participating, staff will inform guests and may offer a refund or complimentary admission to another exhibit. Animal welfare always comes first.

Can I bring my own food to feed the giraffes?

No. Outside food is strictly prohibited. Even seemingly harmless items like apples or carrots can disrupt the giraffes’ carefully managed diet. The zoo’s nutritionists formulate each meal based on age, weight, and health status. Bringing outside food can lead to illness or require emergency veterinary care.

How many giraffes are there at Brookfield Zoo?

Brookfield Zoo typically houses a herd of 4–6 reticulated giraffes, a subspecies native to northeastern Kenya and Somalia. The herd includes males, females, and occasionally calves. Names and identities are shared with visitors during feeding sessions to foster personal connections.

Is the giraffe feeding area indoors or outdoors?

The feeding station is outdoors, under a covered pavilion. It is open year-round, weather permitting. In extreme heat or rain, sessions may be delayed or moved indoors to a viewing area with a glass barrier. Check the app or website for real-time updates.

Can I touch the giraffes?

No direct physical contact is permitted. The giraffes’ skin is sensitive, and human touch can cause stress or introduce bacteria. The feeding experience is designed to be visual and tactile through the food, not through skin-to-skin contact.

How long does the giraffe feeding experience last?

Each individual feeding takes about 30–60 seconds. The entire queue and orientation process typically lasts 15–25 minutes, depending on crowd size. Plan for a total of 30–45 minutes to complete the full experience.

Do I need to book in advance?

No reservations are required for individual visitors. Tokens are sold on-site. However, groups of 10 or more should contact the zoo’s education department at least one week in advance to arrange a guided group feeding experience.

Is the giraffe feeding program ethical?

Yes. Brookfield Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which enforces the highest standards in animal care, ethics, and education. The feeding program is voluntary for the animals, supervised by trained staff, and designed to promote natural behaviors. It also funds conservation efforts and raises public awareness about giraffe decline in the wild.

Conclusion

Feeding giraffes at Brookfield Zoo is not merely a tourist attraction—it’s a powerful bridge between humans and wildlife. It transforms passive observation into active participation, fostering empathy, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of conservation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you ensure that your experience is not only memorable but also responsible and sustainable. Every token purchased supports research, habitat protection, and the ongoing care of these magnificent animals. Every quiet moment spent watching a giraffe eat is a step toward a more compassionate world.

As you leave the Seven Seas exhibit, take a moment to reflect: giraffes have roamed the African savannas for millions of years. Their survival now depends on informed, thoughtful humans like you. By choosing to feed them at Brookfield Zoo, you’re not just giving them food—you’re giving them a future.