Topeka Zoo Announces Passing of Giraffe, Liz

The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center is heartbroken to share the passing of Elizabeth “Liz” the giraffe, who died on the evening of Saturday, August 23, at approximately 10:00 p.m.

Liz was born at the Topeka Zoo on August 21, 2018, to parents Hope and Sgt. Peppers. More than 1,300 viewers joined a live YouTube broadcast to witness her birth, and she was named in honor of the late Elizabeth Stratton, a generous supporter of the zoo.

Last Sunday, the Zoo’s veterinary and animal care teams provided an update following a comprehensive exam performed on Sunday morning. During the procedure, Liz’s teeth and nasal passages were checked due to periodic nasal discharge, her hooves were x-rayed and trimmed, her tail was x-rayed, and skin biopsies were taken to evaluate small bumps on her legs. Lab results remain pending. As Liz recovered from anesthesia, she was observed eating, drinking, and interacting positively with her keepers in the hours following her exam.

“When an animal undergoes anesthesia, it experiences tremendous stress on the body. Although the procedure went smoothly, the post-op effects could be delayed for at least a week,” said Dr. Shirley Llizo, VMD, Chief Veterinary Officer at the Topeka Zoo. “We had managed her with various medications to help the body overcome these changes. On necropsy, we found several areas of circulatory disturbances in the intestines. Histopathology will hopefully provide us with more information.”

Giraffe feedings will resume Sunday, August 31st.

“Liz was always a very unique giraffe. She was calm and independent. While she would always take her time with new things, she would eventually take to them in a confident and thought-out manner. Our zoo and our community will miss her dearly,” said Wrylie Guffey, Animal Care Director.

The Zoo invites the public to share their memories of Liz. Supportive notes for zoo staff are very appreciated and may be dropped off in the Zoo’s gift shop.