The San Diego Zoo announced on Friday that, Nicky, a 28-year-old Masai giraffe died last week after showing symptoms of advanced age.
Nicky was the longest-standing resident of the zoo’s giraffe herd, having arrived at the San Diego Zoo in 1999.
As the herd’s matriarch Nicky raised five calves including her son ‘Chifu,’ who made Nicky a grandma last month with the birth of her grandson named ‘Madoadoa,’ according to the San Diego Zoo.
The San Diego Zoo shared the following statement regarding the legacy of Nicky:
“Nicky’s exceptional legacy endures through her family and the lives she touched as a powerful ambassador for her species. She forged connections between guests and the natural world, inspiring deep appreciation and conservation efforts for these gentle giants. Her impact will resonate for years to come.”
San Diego Zoo
Image showing Nicky the Masai giraffe courtesy of the San Diego Zoo.
Masai giraffes are native to Kenya and their conservation status is endangered, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.