Ayo bringing “happiness” to the Living Desert

The Living Desert names baby giraffe Ayo which means “happiness” in Nigerian. The baby giraffe was born April 26th at the zoo.

The name was chosen by the director of animal programs along with the main African area zookeeper, from more than 50 entries in an internal contest. The contest was open to park staff and volunteers and the winning name was entered by The Living Desert’s director of trains Joe Schneider.

“Ayo is a perfect name for this baby giraffe,” says Allen Monroe, President/CEO of The Living Desert.. “He exudes happiness and brings smiles to everyone who sees him.”

Ayo is the first baby for mom, Tuli, and sixth calf for the father, Hesabu, who both came to The Living Desert from the San Diego Wild Animal Park. The Living Desert is currently home to a herd of six giraffes, four males and two females, all of which are on exhibit in the African section of the zoo.

The Living Desert is open daily from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with the last admission at 1 p.m. For more information call (760) 346-5694 or visit www.LivingDesert.org