Twiga, a beloved giraffe who resided at the Ellen Trout Zoo, passed away over the weekend at the remarkable age of 31, making her one of the oldest giraffes cared for by humans. The zoo's director, Gordon Henley, announced the sad news on July 9, leaving both staff and visitors mourning the loss of the gentle giant.
Situated in Lufkin, a city approximately 273 kilometers southeast of Dallas, the Ellen Trout Zoo had been Twiga's home since June 2008 when she arrived from the Racine Zoo in Wisconsin. Prior to that, she was born at the Los Angeles Zoo. Twiga, a Masai giraffe, was known for her calm demeanor and played a crucial role in providing companionship to other giraffes at the zoo.
Giraffes typically have a life expectancy of around 25 to 26 years, making Twiga's longevity even more remarkable. As she aged, signs of her advancing years began to manifest, including occasional limping. However, the dedicated keeper staff and the zoo's veterinarian provided her with ample tender loving care (TLC) to ensure her well-being.
Director Henley expressed the sorrow felt by the zoo community.
"We knew based on her age that it was probably not going to be much longer. But that doesn't make it any easier when it happens," Henley stated
Twiga's passing serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitable cycle of life, evoking both gratitude for the years she graced the zoo and a deep sense of loss.
Twiga's story echoes the experiences of other elderly giraffes in captivity. In 2017, Ursula, a giraffe residing at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, passed away at the age of 32. Similarly, in 2021, Mutangi, a giraffe at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Australia, bid farewell to the world at the age of 31. These remarkable animals leave behind a legacy of grace and beauty, captivating the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing them.
As the Ellen Trout Zoo mourns the loss of Twiga, the dedicated staff continues their mission of caring for the remaining animals, ensuring their well-being, and providing enriching experiences for visitors. Twiga's memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who were touched by her gentle presence, serving as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
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