April the giraffe, who became a global sensation for giving birth in 2017, has died

by



[ad_1]

The beloved animal was euthanized on the recommendation of its vets due to worsening arthritis, Harpursville Wildlife Park in New York City said in a Facebook post on Friday.

“We mourn with his many fans, near and far, as we say goodbye to the giraffe who can be credited with gaining a foothold in the conservation awareness of giraffes and giraffes in the 21st century,” reads the message. “Although her hoof prints in her yard erode over time, the imprint she made on the hearts of people around the world will never fade.”

The animal park has been April’s home for almost six years. She had given birth to five calves, including Tajiri, the little boy who made her famous. He was also the first calf to be born in the animal park, with 1.25 million people watching the live broadcast of his birth.
April the giraffe.

April vets noticed that the giraffe was showing noticeable signs of osteoarthritis in the summer of 2020. Despite their tremendous efforts – which included joint supplements, pain relievers, dietary changes, hoof size and coating padded floor in her barn – she continued to lose her mobility.

“To her caretakers and our team here at the park, she is a precious member of our family, and while we knew that day would eventually come, our hearts ache,” said Jordan Patch, owner of Animal Adventure Park, in a press release. “The impact of April on the conservation and enjoyment of animals is both immeasurable and lasting.”

His body was escorted to Cornell University veterinary school for an autopsy, the park said. After the cremation, the ashes from April will be returned to the animal park.

April’s popularity helped raise awareness of the rapidly declining giraffe population, which has fallen 40% in the past 30 years, according to the park.
April and her children arrived when the number of giraffes had fallen to less than 100,000, from more than 150,000 over three decades, according to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

[ad_2]

Source link