GLEN ROSE, Texas — A family in Texas had a startling experience during their visit to the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center when a curious giraffe lifted their two-year-old daughter into the air. Jason Toten, 24, and his fiancé Sierra Robert, 23, along with their children, were on a drive-thru safari when the giraffe approached their truck. The couple encouraged their daughter, Paisley, to feed the giraffe from her hand, but the animal accidentally grabbed the toddler’s shirt and lifted her into the air. Sierra reacted quickly and the giraffe let go of Paisley after she sternly said ‘hey’. In the end, the toddler was unharmed and even seemed unfazed by the incident.
The family’s experience was captured on video by the car behind them. Despite the surprising encounter, Jason stated that the family still enjoyed their visit to Fossil Rim and they even purchased a giraffe toy and t-shirt for Paisley at the gift shop. Giraffes are typically not aggressive, but females can be protective of their young. The wildlife center has since implemented a new policy preventing guests from riding in the bed of pick-up trucks.
Sierra, the mother of the toddler, addressed the backlash she received online, defending her decision to allow Paisley to ride in the back of the truck. She explained that accidents can happen anywhere and that she doesn’t want to shelter her child from experiencing the world. The family remains undeterred by the incident and plans to return to the wildlife center.
Visitors should always exercise caution and follow instructions provided by staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.