'Giraffe Experience' Opening Draws Crowds At Tulsa Zoo

Meet Sam, Lexi and Pili up close with the Tulsa Zoo "Giraffe Experience." Misters and sprinklers keep crowds - and the animals - cool in the triple digit temperatures. <br><br><a href="http://www.newson6.com/story/15158079/tulsa-zoos-gir">Tulsa Zoo's 'Giraffe Experience' Opens Friday</a>

Friday, July 29th 2011, 12:20 pm

By: News On 6

'Giraffe Experience' Opening Draws Crowds At Tulsa Zoo

Dee Duren, NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Animal lovers are already lining up as the "Giraffe Experience" debuts at the Tulsa Zoo. The elevated platform will give zoo patrons a close up view the three giraffes currently in residence.

About 125 people were present for the 10 a.m. opening. The heat caused a delay as the train the Giraffe Experience was done – impacted by the heat. It will stop running at 2 p.m. because of the heat warning and ozone alert.

The Giraffe Experience brings viewers on an eye-to-eye level with Sam, Pili and Lexi. Eventually, you'll be able to feed the giraffes by hand – under a keeper's watchful eye.

The zoo is planning extended hours, opening at 7 a.m., to give patrons a chance to see the giraffes when temperatures are cooler.

There are misting stations, misters and water slides already available to cool down. And the giraffes have sprinklers, too.