Jubilee

Jubilee was born on 31 August 2015 — Singapore’s 50th birthday — making him the first giraffe born at Singapore Zoo in nearly three decades. His arrival coincided rather neatly with the nation’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, and his name reflects the occasion.

As a calf, he stayed closely beside his mother, following her steadily around the habitat in the way young giraffes often do when still learning the rhythms of the herd.

When Jubilee was two years old, he lost his mother and became noticeably more reserved afterwards. Over time, however, he grew more confident through regular interactions with both his keepers and the rest of the giraffe herd.

Today, he is often observed remaining close to younger giraffes during group movements and interactions — a calm and steady presence, particularly when the younger individuals become slightly too enthusiastic about something.

Like many giraffes, Jubilee is highly motivated during feeding sessions and readily participates in guest feeding experiences at the platform. He also takes part in voluntary medical conditioning training to facilitate hoof checks, blood collection and other procedures.

These sessions help ensure he remains comfortable with touch and close examination — particularly when snacks are involved, which, by all accounts, improves cooperation considerably.