A UK Giraffe First! Banham Zoo celebrates as Mahiri the Giraffe Learns to Use an Inhaler

The team at Banham Zoo are proud to share the inspiring story of Mahiri, their much-loved 16-year-old female reticulated giraffe, who is now receiving daily respiratory support through a pioneering inhaler delivery system – the first ever used with a giraffe in the UK. 

Mahiri, born in Osnabrück, Germany as part of an important European breeding programme, has lived with a chronic nasal condition for much of her life. Believed to be linked to an autoimmune disorder, this condition makes breathing through her nostrils difficult and causes persistent discomfort. 

For the past three years, the zoo's dedicated animal care and veterinary teams have worked patiently, day after day, to gently train Mahiri to accept treatment voluntarily. This extraordinary level of trust means Mahiri can now take part in her own healthcare calmly and willingly, without the need for sedation or restraint – ensuring her comfort and dignity are always preserved. 

Her new inhaler-based treatment builds on years of careful work with a nebuliser. Now, Mahiri receives precise doses of Salamol CFC-Free and Clenil Modulite 250 inhalers, specially adapted to suit her unique anatomy and clinical needs. This tailored approach opens her airways, reduces mucus build-up, and provides long-term support for her respiratory health. 

“Giraffe as a species can be quite nervous of anything new, so introducing medical equipment takes enormous patience and trust-building. Our keepers adjusted daily routines and worked at Mahiri’s pace to help her feel comfortable. The fact that she now calmly accepts her inhaler is a real testament to the bond between her and her care team.”  – Deborah Harris, Animal Manager at Banham Zoo 

This achievement is more than a veterinary first – it is a reflection of the compassion, expertise, and commitment that their staff bring to every animal in their care. Mahiri’s journey not only improves her own quality of life, but also contributes to advancing knowledge in giraffe healthcare worldwide. 

As a charity, ZSEA relies on the generosity of visitors, members, and supporters. With continued support, ZSEA can build on successes like Mahiri’s, delivering world-class care for every animal at their zoos and contributing to the conservation of endangered species across the globe.