The Sedgwick County Zoo announced that Twiga, a 26-year-old reticulated giraffe, has passed away. Twiga was born in 1994 at Sedgwick County Zoo and she had 5 calves, all contributing to the survival of her species.
Twiga had developed chronic ailments such as osteoarthritis of the feet and legs, hoof issues, and a decline in body condition. These issues are quite common in giraffes of advanced age. The average life expectancy for giraffes in zoo populations is 19 years. The decision was made to humanely euthanize Twiga on Monday.
Twiga was on a special diet to help her maintain body weight, and she was on daily medication for arthritis over the past few years. Many alternative therapies had been tested for arthritis treatment, but animal care staff found it increasingly difficult to keep her comfortable. As is the case in other aging animals, euthanasia eventually becomes the clear choice when all other treatment options have been explored and proven ineffective.