SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — It was a mournful day for animal lovers in San Diego. On the same day polar bear Kalluk died, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said goodbye to another long-time resident: Nicky, a matriarch of the zoo’s giraffe herd.
At 28, Nicky was believed to be the oldest Masai giraffe in North America. She arrived at the San Diego Zoo in 1999 and quickly became a beloved member of the zoo’s family.
As the longest-standing member of the giraffe herd, she held a matriarchal role, helping to raise generations of giraffes. She raised five calves throughout her lifetime, including her son Chifu, who is the father of her grandson Madoada, born at the zoo last month.
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In recent years, Nicky had been showing signs of her advanced age, according to a statement posted by the zoo. In response, the zoo’s health care team provided expert care to ensure her comfort and well-being, but her condition declined significantly this week.
On Thursday, the team made the compassionate decision to euthanize her. News of Nicky’s and Kalluk’s deaths was announced Friday. Both exceeded the average life expectancy of their species.
“As our herd’s steadfast matriarch, she watched over everyone with unwavering devotion, embodying wisdom and grace in every interaction,” the zoo said. “Nicky’s exceptional legacy endures through her family and the lives she touched as a powerful ambassador for her species.”
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Nicky was more than a beloved zoo resident – she was a living link between people and wildlife, helping visitors understand and care about the challenges her species is facing in the wild. She was a favorite among staff and guests alike, the zoo said.
Giraffes are facing what conservationists describe as “silent extinction.” Over the past 35 years, giraffe populations have declined by more than 30%. Masai giraffes are now classified as endangered because of habitat loss, illegal hunting, climate change and more.
Still, there is hope. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is actively working through its Savanna Conservation Hub, supporting community-led efforts to protect giraffes and restore their habitats. Two endangered Masai giraffe calves were born this year at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and one calf was welcomed at the San Diego Zoo, which increases the global population and strengthens the species’ genetic diversity.
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The zoo encourages the public to join in honoring the memories of Nicky and Kalluk, and to share condolences and support with the community.
Nicky and Kalluk weren’t the only animals remembered this week. Also on Friday, SeaWorld San Diego announced the passing of Basilla, a 42-year-old walrus known to park visitors as Basa. Considered one of the oldest walruses in human care, Basa had lived at SeaWorld since 2019.
“She inspired countless guests to care for and protect marine life, leaving an enduring impact on everyone who met her,” SeaWorld San Diego said. “Our hearts are with all who loved Basa, both here at the park and beyond. She will be deeply missed.”
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