Kibo the reticulated giraffe came to Out of Africa Wildlife Park in 2002 when it was located in the Phoenix area. For 20 years, the 19-foot tall animal was a fixture of the safari park, especially after the park relocated to Camp Verde.
On Aug. 20, after complications from an anesthetic procedure, Kibo was euthanized while surrounded by park staff and owners. The park mourned his passing via a press release.
“He always drew you in for the kiss and made you feel like a giant kid again,” Out of Africa wrote in the release. “He touched our hearts and reminded us to be silly and to laugh every day, especially when he would sit down in front of the entry gates. Saying farewell to this kind of friend does not happen quickly and in fact, has left many breathless and deeply saddened.”
Kibo was born in Florida and came to Out of Africa by way of Ohio. Originally named “Fred,” Out of Africa staff renamed him Kibo, the volcanic summit on Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.
Kibo lived in the Serengeti section of the Out of Africa park and was known for frequently seeking treats from visitors and licking or kissing them when they visited him.
According to the San Diego Zoo, the lifespan of giraffes in captivity usually ranges from 15 to 20 years, so Kibo managed to live a long and hopefully fulfilling life.
Jon Hecht can be reached at 634-8551 or email jhecht@larsonnewspapers.com
