Peoria Zoo Welcomes Fitz: A New Addition to Our Giraffe Tower 

PEORIA, IL (May 14, 2025) –– The Peoria Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of Fitzniklas—affectionately known as Fitz—a young male giraffe who recently joined our herd from the Memphis Zoo. At just over a year old, Fitz brings youthful energy and a bright future to our giraffe exhibit, where he will soon be joining our two resident female giraffes, Vivian and Emy.

Fitz’s move to Peoria was carefully coordinated through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan, a collaborative effort among accredited zoos to ensure healthy, genetically diverse populations of endangered species like the reticulated giraffe. His arrival reflects Peoria Zoo’s ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and the care of these iconic animals.


While Fitz completes his standard quarantine period, he has already begun interacting with Vivian and Emy. Though separated by a protective fence for now, the trio have been spotted exchanging gentle nuzzles, offering a heartwarming preview of the bonds being formed.

“Fitz is a sweet little guy with a lot of personality and curiosity,” says Lauren, Fitz’s primary keeper at Peoria Zoo. “He’s going to fit in well with the girls, and they already love him as much as I, and the rest of the zoo crew, do.”


The Memphis Zoo, where Fitz was born, shared their well-wishes as he begins this next chapter. Amanda Schweighart, Curator of the African Veldt, Northwest Passage, and Teton Trek at Memphis Zoo, remarked, "We will definitely miss his sweet, curious personality in our herd. He is very much like his dad, Niklas, whom he shares a birthday with. We know Fitz will acclimate and do well with his new herd in Peoria."


Peoria Zoo Director Max Lakes added, “Every animal at Peoria Zoo helps us tell a bigger story, and Fitz is no exception. His playful spirit will capture hearts, while his journey here reminds us of the importance of thoughtful animal care and the role zoos play in protecting these majestic species.”


Fitz is expected to finish his quarantine in the next week, after which visitors will be able to see him exploring his new home alongside Vivian and Emy.


We look forward to welcoming guests to meet Fitz, enjoy special moments with our giraffe family, and discover how zoos like ours help care for these incredible animals. Follow Peoria Zoo on social media for updates on Fitz’s journey and more behind-the-scenes stories.

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ABOUT PEORIA ZOO

Peoria Zoo’s mission is to create connections that inspire an appreciation for and encourage actions to conserve the natural world. Peoria Zoo, a Peoria Park District facility, is located in Glen Oak Park, a 40+ acre park located in the heart of the East Bluff in Peoria, IL. Peoria Zoo is over 14 acres in size and home to over 100 different species from around the world. To learn more, please visit www.peoriazoo.org.



ABOUT PEORIA PARK DISTRICT

Public stewards of nearly 9,000 acres of park and greenspace and another 185 buildings, the Park District’s mission is “We contribute to healthy and vibrant communities by responsibly using our resources to offer high quality parks, recreation, and education experiences to those who live, work, or play in our District.” To learn more, please visit www.peoriaparks.org.


More Resources:

View all our press releases and virtual press packets by visiting https://peoriaparks.org/news/


Peoria Park District Media Contact:

Emily G. Cahill

Executive Director, Peoria Park District

(309) 682-1200

ecahill@peoriaparks.org