The votes were in, and after weeks of anticipation, April and Oliver\u2019s calf has been given the name Tajiri, which stands for king, hope and confidence in Swahili. A large number of voters worldwide chose \u201cAllysa\u2019s Choice\u201d in honor of Allysa Swilley, April\u2019s keeper. <\/p>\n
Allysa, along with keeper Corey, chose the name Tajiri, which was recently announced on Good Morning America to millions of viewers. <\/p>\n
\u201cHope is something that Tajiri brought not only the global community, but giraffes as well,\u201d stated Allysa. \u201cThis experience has given giraffes a voice and the species hope. We are also confident that we can move forward into a future where giraffes are no longer under threat.\u201d <\/p>\n
Voting for the calf\u2019s name took place in two rounds over a 15-day period. The funds raised by the voting will be distributed to giraffe conservation efforts in the wild, Ava\u2019s Little Heroes, the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit and Animal Adventure Park. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe are proud of the powerful, hope-inspiring name Tajiri for our calf,\u201d said Jordan Patch, owner of Animal Adventure Park. \u201cWe know the calf will carry the name well.\u201d <\/p>\n
Animal Adventure is an interactive, educational animal park located in the hills of Harpursville, N.Y., which is 15 minutes outside of Binghamton, N.Y. The park\u2019s mission is to communicate an appreciation for living things through the use of the human senses and to educate guests about the lives of its animal ambassadors.<\/p>\n
Animal Adventure is federally licensed by the USDA; ensuring the same standards of care met by of zoos and aquariums in the United States. Zoologists, animal behaviorist, biologists, educators and general caretakers staff the park. <\/p>\n
The park is currently closed to the public and will open for the season on May 13. <\/p>\n