Nicky, a 28-year-old Masai giraffe, passed away last week after exhibiting signs of advanced age, the San Diego Zoo said on Friday.
Arriving to the San Diego Zoo in 1999, Nicky was the giraffe herd’s longest-term resident.
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According to the San Diego Zoo, Nicky, the matriarch of the herd, reared five calves, including her son “Chifu,” who last month became a grandmother when her grandson “Madoadoa” was born.
Regarding Nicky’s legacy, the San Diego Zoo released the following statement:
As a strong representative of her species, Nicky left behind an extraordinary legacy that continues on in her family and the lives she impacted. She inspired a profound admiration and protection efforts for these gentle giants by creating relationships between visitors and the natural environment. Her influence will last for many years.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service states that the conservation status of the native Masai giraffes is endangered.
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