Gemina, the crooked neck giraffe, is one of the Santa Barbara Zoo’s most recognizable and beloved animals. Though different than other giraffes, Gemina has lived a long and healthy life and has even been an inspiration to children with handicaps. The zoo celebrated Gemina’s 21st birthday on July 16 with more than 100 Zoo Campers serenading her with “Happy Birthday,” a giraffe-sized birthday card and a treat made of acacia – her favorite food.
Gemina was born in 1986 at the San Diego Wild Animal Park to parents who were both born at the San Diego Zoo. She has lived at the Santa Barbara Zoo since she was approximately one-year-old. Even though giraffes in captivity have been known to live into their late twenties, reaching the age of 21 is considered an achievement.
Gemina has a condition that has developed over the years and the cause is unknown. Radiographs and examinations by the zoo’s veterinarian have been inconclusive. She does not appear to be in pain and exhibits normal giraffe behaviors.
In 2005, she was featured in the television show “Miracle Workers” as the source of inspiration for a young boy with severe scoliosis. Zoo visitors often comment about Gemina’s normal life as part of the herd. She has had one calf since she arrived at the Santa Barbara Zoo.
The zoo’s giraffe herd also includes Taru, a 15-year-old male. Watch out during feeding because he likes to “slime” the unwary who forget he has a long tongue. Females Sulima, 17-years- old, and Eritrea, 7-years-old, are more shy but also visit the feeding deck, along with Gemina.
Come by to feed the giraffes and wish Gemina a happy birthday.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is Santa Barbara’s number one tourist attraction. Located on 30 lush hilltop acres across the street from Santa Barbara’s East Beach, it is home to 160 species of mammals, reptiles, birds and insects.
For more information, please call 805-569-3303 or 805-962-5339.