Baby giraffe dies at Nashville Zoo after being trampled by mother

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First-time mother Nasha, 6, gave birth to a healthy calf on Saturday after a complicated delivery, according to the zoo.

But after announcing the birth, zookeepers noticed the calf was in distress. Soon after, they announced the tragic loss.

“We are heartbroken to report that Nasha’s calf died shortly after our birth announcement earlier today, after her mother accidentally stepped on it,” the zoo wrote.

“Our animal care team quickly intervened but failed to save the calf,” the zoo wrote. “An initial autopsy showed trauma to the neck, but further tests will follow to determine if there were any underlying causes for the death of the newborn. Thank you all for your support over the past few weeks and in especially during this difficult time. “

“We are devastated by the loss of Nasha’s calf,” said Dr. Heather Schwartz, director of veterinary medicine at the zoo. “Our staff worked tirelessly to ensure that this calf received the best possible care. We went from fear of a stillborn to the joy of waking up to anguish.”

Birth complications had led the zoo to remove live food during the birthing process as thousands went online, the zoo said.
“SURPRISE! Nasha’s calf arrived, just in a different way than we expected! There were complications with labor and our team stepped in to help with the delivery. Mom and baby seem to be doing well … “the zoo tweeted at the time.

Schwartz said the calf appeared to be thriving and they decided to move the newborn to be with his mother. The two were linked, but during this time Nasha may have inadvertently injured her calf, Schwartz said.

Nasha, 6, with her newborn baby.
According to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, Masai giraffes are endangered due to their population declining by around 50% over the past three decades.

Nasha is doing well and the keepers will provide her with a lot of comfort and care for the next few days, according to the zoo.



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