UPDATE: Gracie the giraffe found after 2 weeks roaming the Texas Hill Country
A 3-year-old reticulated giraffe named Gracie has been found after being on the loose in the Texas Hill Country more than two weeks after escaping her enclosure at Cedar Hollow Ranch near Leakey.
Ranch manager Vick Jones and the Real County Animal Rescue-Shelter confirmed this week that Gracie has not been found despite game camera sightings and community searches. The giraffe escaped around mid-June from the private facility in rural Real County, roughly 100 miles northwest of San Antonio.
Jones reported that Gracie was last seen on a game camera west of Leakey. Local authorities, including the Real County Sheriff’s Office, are assisting with efforts to locate her safely. The ranch, which breeds and raises exotic animals, is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to her capture and return.
Anyone who spots the giraffe—described as having a long neck and round ears—is asked to contact Jones at 830-279-5822 or the Real County Sheriff’s Office at 830-232-5201. Officials urge the public not to approach the animal but to report sightings immediately.
The search has captured widespread attention across Texas and beyond, with false reports of her recovery circulating online. Ranch representatives and law enforcement have repeatedly clarified that Gracie remains missing. No injuries to people or the giraffe have been reported in connection with the escape.
Gracie arrived at the ranch in May. Real County, with a population of about 2,700, is largely rural ranchland, which has complicated recovery efforts in the rugged terrain.
The incident has spotlighted issues around exotic animal keeping in Texas, though officials are focused primarily on Gracie’s safe return. Community members have been asked to remain vigilant while respecting private property.
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