FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo says that it is “with heavy hearts” that it announces the loss of matriarch and beloved giraffe, Zuri, on Friday, November 25.
Our experienced animal care staff and veterinary team noticed earlier in the week that Zuri was showing signs of abdominal pain and a decreased appetite. Due to advanced training and trust she had with the care team, Zuri voluntarily participated in sessions that allowed for diagnostic testing and treatments to be performed.
The Zoo says that despite treatments for several days, Zuri’s symptoms worsened, resulting in a grave prognosis for recovery. With Zuri’s well-being in mind, the Zoo says that the care staff made a difficult but kind decision to gift Zuri a peaceful end.
Representatives released the following (see the Zoo’s social media post here):
Born on Dec. 6, 1988, Zuri joined the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo family in 1989 and quickly became a zoo favorite among both animal care staff and guests. Since her arrival, Zuri has greeted over 17 million guests and has been an exceptional ambassador animal for this endangered species.
“There was nothing sweeter than hearing the squeal of a child who fed Zuri a piece of lettuce for the first time.” Explains executive director Rick Schuiteman, “Our mission is to connect kids and animals, strengthen families, and inspire people to care; and Zuri’s impact simply stood above the rest.”
Dr. Kami Fox, head veterinarian, expresses “The Fort Wayne community was able to connect with Zuri in a unique and incredibly special way. The exceptional care she received allowed Zuri to connect with kids for nearly 34 years. As the oldest reticulated giraffe in the United States, her influence on guests, her species, and the entire AZA community was outstanding. Now, it’s up to us to continue her legacy.”
Zuri was loved by all, and her loss is felt deeply. We share this heartbreak with our animal care staff, who cared for her daily. We thank them for their outstanding work, not only with Zuri, but with all the animals here at the Zoo.
We appreciate the support of the community as we grieve her loss and celebrate her legacy together and welcome the community to mail cards, photos or stories of your favorite memories of Zuri to the Zoo at 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46808.
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