Zoo staff mourns loss, reviews safety measures to prevent future incidents

In a heart-wrenching incident at Zoo Miami, a female baby giraffe, born on December 15, succumbed first to a fatal injury resulting in a broken neck, before its death. Zoo officials, deeply saddened by the loss, reported that the giraffe was discovered by the staff on the morning of Saturday, March 16, 2024. The zoo’s spokesperson, Ron Magill, conveyed the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

Given that the incident occurred overnight without direct witnesses, zoo authorities can only hypothesize about the cause of the accident. It is believed that the young giraffe was startled and ran into a fence, leading to the catastrophic injury. A subsequent necropsy confirmed the cause of death as a broken neck.

The zoo’s team is currently undertaking a thorough review of all procedures and safety measures to prevent any similar occurrences in the future. Magill emphasized the zoo’s commitment to the well-being of its animals, stating, “This has been a devastating loss, and all procedures are being carefully evaluated to help ensure the prevention of any similar incidents in the future.”

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the zoo’s staff continues to closely monitor the remaining giraffes in the herd. Magill reported that, despite the unfortunate incident, the other giraffes have resumed their normal routines without any further incidents.

Zoo Miami has a notable history of giraffe care, with 60 giraffes having been born at the facility. The zoo also actively contributes to giraffe conservation efforts in the wild through the Zoo Miami Conservation Fund, supporting various organizations dedicated to the preservation of these majestic animals.

The loss of the juvenile giraffe has left the Zoo Miami community in mourning, highlighting the challenges and unpredictability of caring for wildlife in captive environments. Zoo Miami remains dedicated to the safety and conservation of giraffes, both in captivity and in their natural habitats