Female Giraffe, Nzuri (along with her unborn calf) has sadly died following complications during labour. Quote taken from Sydney Zoos social media:
It is with deep sadness that Sydney Zoo announces the death of our beloved female giraffe, Nzuri, and her unborn calf, following severe complications during labour.
Late Thursday night, animal care staff noticed signs of active labour in Nzuri. As her labour progressed, it became apparent that the birth was not proceeding normally. A dedicated team of three veterinarians and two veterinary nurses from several institutions was immediately mobilised to intervene and assist with the delivery.
Upon examination under anaesthesia, the team found the calf in an abnormal position; the calf's two front legs were emerging, however, the head and neck was malpositioned, making safe delivery impossible. Despite the team's best efforts, it became evident that the calf had died and due to the stress and difficulty of the birth, Nzuri’s condition had severely deteriorated.
Faced with no viable options to save her, the very difficult decision was made to humanely euthanise Nzuri to prevent her from further suffering.
“This is an incredibly heartbreaking outcome for all involved,” said Tim Bennett Animal Care Manager Exotics “Our animal care team did everything possible to try and save both the calf and the mother, Nzuri. Decisions like this are never made lightly. The animal’s welfare is always our primary concern.”
Nzuri was a much-loved member of the Sydney Zoo family, and her passing has deeply affected all staff who cared for her daily.
