Exactly one year from the February 2009 groundbreaking, Sacramento Zoo officially opened Tall Wonders Giraffe Habitat this morning with a toast and ribbon cutting, good food and raffle drawings for Sacramento Zoological Society members.

For the very first time, visitors will be eye to eye with the stately residents on the 1,100 square foot raised deck. The elevated platform also provides a magnificent view into the neighboring zebra and ostrich area.

The state-of-the-art block barn (yes, it’s heated!) provides warm nights for three giraffes, Val, Skye & Goody, while the expanded grounds allow for leisurely giraffe-size strolls during the day.

Cutting the ribbon are Robby Waters; Mary Healy, Zoo Director; Robert King Fong, Councilmember; Terry Kastanis, Sacramento Zoological Society Board Past President; Starr Walton-Hurley, Sacramento Zoological Society Board President.

Sacramento Zoological Society was presented $10,000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

Sacramento Zoological members enjoyed good food during the opening of the habitat.

Former Mayors Heather Fargo (right, in picture) and Ann Rutan were there.

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner