Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium says one of the giraffes born at the zoo in March has died. The female giraffe, which never had a name because of an ongoing contest to name her, died despite round the clock care by zoo veterinarians.
The giraffe was born March 25. The girl developed multiple problems including a bacterial infection. The zoo reports the calf appeared to improve substantially and seemed fully recovered.
Despite the optimism, the calf was still closely monitored. Last weekend, it became obvious that she was not gaining weight as should be expected. She also seemed to be less active.
Zoo staff and veterinarians decided to hand raise the calf since she was having less success nursing. Transitioning from natural nursing to bottle nursing is often difficult for giraffes. That was the case this time because the girl was reluctant to take the bottle.
The calf became weaker Tuesday night and more intensive medical care was administered. Unfortunately, the effort was not enough. The giraffe died about 1am Wednesday.
Another giraffe was born at the zoo March 16 and is doing well.
The giraffe was born March 25. The girl developed multiple problems including a bacterial infection. The zoo reports the calf appeared to improve substantially and seemed fully recovered.
Despite the optimism, the calf was still closely monitored. Last weekend, it became obvious that she was not gaining weight as should be expected. She also seemed to be less active.
Zoo staff and veterinarians decided to hand raise the calf since she was having less success nursing. Transitioning from natural nursing to bottle nursing is often difficult for giraffes. That was the case this time because the girl was reluctant to take the bottle.
The calf became weaker Tuesday night and more intensive medical care was administered. Unfortunately, the effort was not enough. The giraffe died about 1am Wednesday.
Another giraffe was born at the zoo March 16 and is doing well.