Brookfield Zoo's 24-year-old giraffe Franny dies
CHICAGO (STMW) - A 24-year-old giraffe at the Brookfield Zoo died Wednesday after a battle with arthritis.
Franny, who had lived at the west suburban zoo since 1992, was euthanized after age-related degenerative arthritis “began to severely impact her daily comfort and quality of life,” a statement on the zoo’s website said.
She is survived by three calves, including Arnieta, who still resides at the zoo; as well as seven grand-calves and two great grand-calves who live at other North American zoos.
Veterinary staff had been monitoring Franny for the past several years for signs of decline associated with geriatric degenerative joint disease. Her condition recently worsened, making it difficult for her to move around with the rest of the herd.
Giraffes typically live about 13-25 years in the wild, according to the World Animal Foundation.
“In addition to being a favorite of our staff and guests, Franny truly was an ambassador for the species in the wild. Seeing a giraffe up close is an amazing experience, one that we hope inspires our guests to connect with and care about the species,” Bill Zeigler, senior vice president of animal programs, said in the statement.
Franny’s daughter, Arnieta, 8, remains at the zoo, along with Potoka, 2; Jasiri, 10; and Mithra, 25.