Feeling Privileged

Meet Jamila - isn't she beautiful? You could drown in those big brown eyes.

On Saturday afternoon we went up to Monarto Zoo to visit the giraffes. We hadn't been since their new platform has been built. It was the most amazing experience, the keeper brings in food for them at set times in the day so that visitors can handfeed the giraffes. Mistletoe was the food of choice on Saturday. Jamila must be very fond of it as although many of the others looked like they wanted to, she was the only giraffe who came over. She was so funny to watch before the keeper arrived - edging closer and closer over the half hour before he arrived. Lifting her front legs and licking her lips.

It was just wonderful to be able to look her in the eyes.

She was very brave - because although these photos show only us, beforehand there were hoards there all waiving little branches of mistletoe at her. This last photograph was taken after we had fed her all the little bits that we on the floor and had nothing left to feed her with and we were just talking to her. Just after Garry took this she leaned towards us and licked my hands. Smelly breath and all, I feel privileged. Apparently they have wonderful eyesight so she would have known I didn't have any food left. So I'm taking it that she likes me and I have a new friend!