Florida safari park mourns "tragic loss" of two giraffes killed by lightning

Two giraffes living in a Florida wildlife park were fatally struck by lightning during a severe thunderstorm.

The Lion Country Safari, in South Florida, said it was "deeply saddened" by the sudden deaths of Lily and Jioni, who died during a violent storm, officials said Tuesday.

They were found dead in a pasture in their habitat about six weeks ago, but the cause of their deaths was a mystery until now. The safari announced Tuesday in a Facebook post that the park's employees were "devastated by this sudden and tragic loss".

"Recent pathological findings confirm that the giraffe[s] Lightning has passed and the passage has been instant, said the safari. The guards and our entire team were devastated by this sudden and tragic loss.

Lion Country Safari

Officials said they had waited to release details about the deaths, partly because they wanted to give the guards a chance to mourn. They described the animals as "very charismatic" and close to the staff.

"Out of respect for their grief and the expected results of the pathology, we waited to share this information," the statement said. "We continue to mourn our two incredible and charismatic giraffes, we will miss them very much."

Facebook posted more than 3,000 comments and reactions in just two hours.

"I'm really sorry for your loss, it is obvious that the love and care you give to all animals must be devastating.Thank you for everything you have done for Lily and Jioni," wrote one user from Facebook.

"We send many hugs and prayers to the guards, knowing that they are working hard and selflessly to protect and protect these beautiful creatures," added another user.

The safari also addressed potential concerns regarding its accommodation system. The giraffe "actually has access to many shelters in a habitat of several acres, if they choose to use them".