After months of anticipation, giraffes have arrived at the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend.

This week the zoo welcomed four male Masai giraffes: Seymour, five-years-old; Maximus, five-years-old; Wyatt, five-years-old; and Kellan, two-years-old.

Currently, the giraffes are in quarantine right now, which is protocol for all animals that come into the zoo. During this time, the giraffes will be kept isolated from other animals and minimal human contact, even from Zoo staff.

However, the giraffes, who have been checked by veterinary and animal care staff, appear to be in good health.

According to the Potawatomi Zoo, scientists estimate that there are fewer than 90,000 giraffes in the world, which renders their conservation status as vulnerable to extinction.

Masai giraffes are the largest species or subspecies of giraffe, with around 35,000 estimated to exists. They’re native to southern Kenya and Tanzania.

During the 2022 Zoo season, guests will be ale to see the giraffes in their brand new habitat in the Laidig Giraffe Conservation Center.

The 10,000-square foot barn and 2.3-acre savanna were part of the $4.6 million campaign that saw nearly 350 private donors, corporations, foundations and others who contributed between 2019 and 2021.