At Zoo Basel—one of just eight Swiss zoos where you can see giraffes—the critically endangered Kordofan giraffe is at the heart of a remarkable conservation story.
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As of March 2026, Zoo Basel is home to a close-knit group of Kordofan giraffes: mother Sophie, age 15; father Xamburu, age 16; and their two daughters, Tufani and Xahara. This family is the result of a dedicated breeding effort, with Tufani born in September 2022 and the newest arrival, Xahara, born on March 11, 2026. Each calf marks a significant achievement for the zoo, as both were born to the same parents, highlighting Zoo Basel's sustained commitment to the species.
Visitors can witness unique family interactions between these four individuals, making each visit a window into the lives of one of the world’s rarest giraffe subspecies.
The birth of Xahara in March 2026 was a notable event for staff and visitors alike. To give Sophie and her newborn daughter the best start, the Antelope House—where the giraffes reside—was temporarily closed after Xahara's birth. This quiet period allowed mother and calf to bond undisturbed during their crucial first days together. The Antelope House reopened to the public on March 18, 2026, giving visitors the special opportunity to see Xahara as she took her earliest steps alongside her family.
Zoo Basel has been keeping Kordofan giraffes since 2011. This subspecies is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN, with only about 1,400 individuals left in the wild. Each birth at Zoo Basel directly supports the survival of the species, offering hope for a future where Kordofan giraffes can thrive. The zoo’s ongoing success with breeding these giraffes demonstrates a tangible contribution to international conservation efforts.
The Antelope House is the heart of the giraffe experience at Zoo Basel. Originally renovated in 2020, the building offers both protection for the animals and an immersive viewing experience for visitors. During the renovations, guests could only see the giraffes when they ventured outside, but since December 2020, the indoor space has been fully open again. This thoughtfully designed habitat ensures the giraffe family is comfortable year-round and visible to all who come to admire them.
Seeing the Kordofan giraffes at Zoo Basel means witnessing one of Switzerland’s rarest and most important conservation stories up close. Each visit supports the ongoing work to secure a future for these extraordinary animals.
