Beloved giraffe of South Dakota zoo euthanized after foot injury

SIOUX FALLS, SD — A beloved giraffe at a South Dakota zoo has died.

The Great Plains Zoo and Butterfly House on Thursday & Aquarium in Sioux Falls announced the death of Chioke, an 18-year-old reticulated giraffe. He died on March 28.

“After suffering a severe fracture to his left forefoot, Animal Care and Veterinary leaders have made the difficult but responsible decision to humanely euthanize him,” the zoo said in a news release.

Chioke, born at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida, came to the zoo in 2007. He grew to almost 4.5 meters in length and had three offspring, which went to other zoos. The Great Plains Zoo remembered him for his playfulness.

He had recurring hoof and foot problems in his later years, including two fractures at the tip of his toe bone and resulting arthritis, the zoo said. In March he suffered a more serious fracture.

The zoo consulted nationwide on a treatment plan and used several methods, including medications, rest and laser therapy, but ultimately decided to euthanize Chioke “due to quality of life concerns” after his team ruled out immobilizing him for surgery or orthopedic surgery. therapy. device and x-rays showed the fracture had worsened.

Zoo staff visited the giraffe to say goodbye and gave him apple cookies, a favorite of his.

“We remember Chioke as a gentle, curious and mischievous giraffe who was always up for eating and interacting with his keepers and guests,” the zoo said. “Chioke means ‘gift from God’, and he certainly was that.”