Roosevelt Park Zoo Invites Community to Celebrate Kianga’s Extraordinary Life and Legacy
MINOT, N.D. — Roosevelt Park Zoo is inviting the community to come together on Saturday, October 10, and Sunday, October 11, for a special celebration honoring the extraordinary life of Kianga, the Zoo’s beloved giraffe matriarch.
At 26 years old, Kianga has lived an extraordinary life, far surpassing the average life expectancy of approximately 21 years for giraffes in human care. Over the years, she has become a cherished member of the Roosevelt Park Zoo family, touching the lives of generations of guests with her gentle spirit, graceful presence and unique personality.
As Kianga enters the final chapter of her life, the Zoo is choosing to celebrate with her and for her—while she is still here.
“We wanted to give our community an opportunity to celebrate Kianga while she can still feel the love and support of the people whose lives she has touched,” said Roosevelt Park Zoo Director, Dr. Logan Wood. “There is something incredibly meaningful about taking the time to say thank you, share memories and celebrate a life while that person—or in this case animal—is still here to receive it.”
Throughout her life, Kianga has been surrounded by dedicated animal care and veterinary professionals who have adapted her care as she aged, carefully monitoring her health, nutrition and enrichment while supporting her comfort and natural behaviors.
Kianga’s legacy extends well beyond Roosevelt Park Zoo. She gave birth to 11 calves, each of whom went on to live at other accredited zoos and contribute to the future of giraffe populations in human care. Through her offspring, her legacy will continue for generations.
The Zoo encourages guests to visit during the celebration weekend, spend time with Kianga, share their favorite memories and take the opportunity to simply say thank you.
Kianga has been an ambassador, teacher, mother and gentle giant who helped countless people discover a love for giraffes and conservation. For those who have cared for her and known her best, she has also been a beloved personality and an irreplaceable part of the Roosevelt Park Zoo family.
This isn’t goodbye. It’s a celebration.
Roosevelt Park Zoo invites the community to join us October 10 and 11 to celebrate Kianga, reflect on the memories she has given us and let her know just how much she means to our community and everyone who visits the Roosevelt Park Zoo.
Come celebrate Kianga while she is still here to feel the love of the Magic City.