Columbus Zoo announces the death of its newborn baby giraffe

COLUMBUS (WCMH) – A baby giraffe born just a few weeks ago died this morning at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Ubumwe, the Masai calf, died at 8.30am.

The cause of death is unknown, say the zoo officials.

Officials stated that they would have no more information until a necropsy, an autopsy of an animal is conducted and that a report is available. of pathology be received in several weeks.

A team of animal care professionals monitored the calf and its mother, Zuri, 24 hours a day since birth, on October 30th.

Authorities said Ubumwe had been energetic and treated as needed, but his health care team noted Friday afternoon that his behavior and appearance had begun to change.

Ubumwe was constipated and fluids and analgesics were administered to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. After an examination, Ubumwe resumed breastfeeding Zuri.

In the early evening, Ubumwe's health care providers noticed that she still seemed to be suffering from gastrointestinal discomfort. A follow-up examination including an ultrasound was therefore performed.

His care team provided Ubumwe with extra fluids.

His condition became critical when the ultrasound revealed an abnormality of the intestine. She was then anesthetized and taken to the Zoo Animal Health Center for a CT scan. This was done with the help of a specialist equine veterinarian and a radiologist from Ohio State University. , officials said.

Computed tomography showed no blockage or other reason for surgical discomfort, but the heifer continued to receive intensive care from animal care professionals in the zoo and remained in another hidden area where it appeared to be stable and comfortable. overnight.

Early this morning, however, Ubumwe's health has further deteriorated quickly and passed away.

"The dedicated zoo team for animal care is devastated but remains committed to caring for the other members of the giraffe flock, including Zuri who accompanies them, as well as Cami, who is also expecting a calf soon," wrote officials a statement. "We appreciate your support for our team during this extremely difficult time and we will continue to provide updates as more and more information becomes available."