Giraffe Centre, wildlife conservation centre in Lang'ata, Nairobi, Kenya
The Giraffe Centre is a wildlife conservation facility in Lang'ata, about 20 kilometres from central Nairobi, founded to protect the Rothschild's giraffe. Its main feature is a raised observation platform from which visitors feed giraffes at eye level. Warthogs roam freely among the giraffes on the grounds.
In 1979 Jock Leslie-Melville, a Kenyan grandson of a Scottish earl, and his wife Betty captured two baby Rothschild's giraffes on their Lang'ata property to start a breeding programme. The herd's success allowed several breeding pairs to be released into Kenyan national parks. By 1983 funds raised from that work paid for the Giraffe Visitor Centre as a tourist destination just outside Nairobi.
The center plays a role in connecting people to Kenya's wildlife through direct observation and educational visits. Community groups and families come here to learn about animal behavior and why these creatures matter to the country.
The centre sits in Lang'ata, about 20 kilometres from central Nairobi. Visitors feed the Rothschild's giraffes from a raised observation platform, which brings them to eye level with the animals. Warthogs roam the same grounds freely, so watch for them near the paths.
Each giraffe has a unique pattern of spots that makes it possible to recognize individual animals on return visits. Many visitors become interested in the distinctive markings and keep track of which giraffes they encounter during their time there.
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