Reid Park Zoo Mourn Passing of Giraffe, Sota

The team at Reid Park Zoo are mourning the passing of their giraffe, Sota, aged three. They made the decision to humanely euthanize Sota following the discovery of damage to his legs.

“During a medical procedure to explore Sota’s swollen ankle joint, the veterinary surgeon was able to determine that the joint did not have any healthy cartilage remaining,” said Dr. Sue Tygielski, Chief Operating Officer of Reid Park Zoo. “The medical team could not provide any relief to the joint. Given this prognosis, our team made the incredibly difficult decision to humanely euthanize Sota.”

It is unclear how Sota initially injured his ankle. Keepers first noticed a subtle limp which gradually developed. After noticing this they began a monitoring program and provided pain medication.

With giraffes being so tall they rely on their legs being healthy. As a result of the damage it was determined that his leg could not support his normal weight. “While the decision to euthanize is never easy, we know it was the only option as Sota’s quality of life would decline quickly,” Tygielski said.

During his final weeks the team at Reid Park Zoo worked tirelessly to make him comfortable.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Sota, who is beloved by Zoo staff and visitors alike,” said Nancy Kluge, President & CEO of Reid Park Zoo. “Our hearts go out to the team that worked so closely with Sota every day. We also want to extend a sincere thank you for the medical team, both from the Zoo and the specialists who came to assist in the procedure, for doing everything they could for Sota. We appreciate your efforts.”

Keepers and vets gave the rest of the giraffe herd an opportunity to view the body of Sota as part of their mourning process. They report that the herd has been coping well with the loss.