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SALT LAKE CITY — Following a decline in strength and health, Hogle Zoo’s 31-year-old giraffe Daphne was euthanized, officials announced Tuesday.
Daphne was the oldest giraffe living in North America at the time of her death, according to Utah's Hogle Zoo. Associate veterinarian Erika Crook said the giraffe needed medication to help with aches and pains “like a great grandmother would,” since the animal far outlived the average lifespan for giraffes of 15 years.
"We found her lying down, which Daphne hasn't done for a long time" Crook said in a statement. "We'd been monitoring her for a few months and as is often the case with animals, they let you know when it's time."
Daphne has been at Hogle Zoo since 1985. Her caregivers described her as being very observant, often learning by watching the other giraffes.
We are so sad to report the passing of Daphne, the oldest giraffe in North America. She was 31 (avg 15 yrs) :( :( pic.twitter.com/mPKbCe0usw
— Utah's Hogle Zoo (@HogleZoo) May 24, 2016
In her final days, the giraffe struggled with degenerative musculoskeletal issues and “exhibited a considerable decline in appetite,” according to the zoo. She was more sedentary, and zoo keepers struggled to get her to accept medicine.
"You know, she went on her own terms," giraffe keeper Lisa Ellison said in a statement. "She had a nice week last week; the weather was warm, she was moving well and we had a good last week with her. It was just her time and she let us know that."
Daphne left behind three other female giraffes at the zoo. Willow, the youngest giraffe at only four months old, was born at Hogle Zoo on Jan. 13.