Giraffe dies after getting caught in popular zoo's enclosure gate

13 February 2023 , 22:03

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Parker, the zoo's 6-year-old Masai giraffe, has died (Image: Facebook)

A six-year-old Masai giraffe has tragically died after getting caught in a support structure in its enclosure at a popular zoo in New York.

The animal, named Parker, was found unresponsive at Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, on Sunday morning.

The zoo said staff found the giraffe stuck when they entered the Animals of the Savanna Building and veterinary staff were called immediately.

Vets tried to save the young giraffe's life, but the animal ultimately died.

Superintendent Steve Lacy said the gate structure was installed in 2018 and is a "standard giraffe enclosure feature" used in zoos across the country.

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He explained: "The possibility of this kind of event happening was unforeseen and unprecedented."

Seneca Park Zoo officials found the giraffe caught up in a gate (Facebook)

Zoo officials said no similar incidents have happened, but they have notified the gate manufacturer about the potential hazard.

They added that the structure is now being modified to ensure the wellness of three other giraffes named Iggy, Kipenzie, and Olmsted.

The zoo said Parker, who arrived at Seneca Park Zoo from Santa Barbara Zoo in 2018, was "in excellent health" and was described as "a joy" to visitors and staff.

Parker was "known for his curiosity and playfulness". The giraffe was paired with females Kipenzi and Iggy, and is father to Olmsted, born in April 2022.

Seneca Park Zoo Veterinarian Chris McKinney said in a statement: "Parker will be sorely missed by all. He had been in excellent health prior to this and was a joy to both staff and visitors.

"Our priority is the health and well-being of our animals and any major event can certainly affect them.

"So far, all three giraffes, Iggy, Kipenzie, and Olmsted, are doing well. We will continue to monitor them closely in the coming days."

The zoo said both the US Department of Agriculture and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums have been notified of the accident.

Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, said: "Our hearts go out to the Seneca Park community and all the dedicated professionals at Seneca Park Zoo with the news of the death of their giraffe Parker."

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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said: "This is a tragedy for the Seneca Park Zoo community.

"From the staff who cared for and loved Parker, to the zoo guests and members who had their visits brightened by Parker's presence, we are all grieving this tremendous loss."

The Zoo Society announced it would create a Facebook fundraiser with all contributions going to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

Chiara Fiorillo