Topeka Zoo Mourns the Loss of Beloved African Elephant, Tembo

The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center is deeply saddened to share that Tembo, the Zoo’s beloved 56-year-old African elephant was humanely euthanized following a recent and more rapid decline in her health. Her caregivers made this difficult but compassionate decision out of love and respect for her well-being. Tembo passed peacefully, surrounded by her devoted zoo family, the people who knew her best and loved her most. Tembo was one of the oldest African elephants in human care in the United States, living far beyond the average life expectancy for her species.

“Tembo was loved by so many; from community members to supporters further away, and of course, all of the staff at Topeka Zoo,” said Wrylie Guffey, Animal Care Director. “She lived a good long life and that is a true testament to the excellent care she received from all of those that helped ensure her well- being throughout the years. She will be deeply missed."

Tembo was one of the zoo’s longest resident animals and had been part of the Topeka community for nearly five decades after arriving at the zoo in 1976. Born in 1970, the African elephant became a familiar and cherished presence for generations of zoo guests, staff and volunteers. Over the years, she also served as an ambassador for elephant conservation and education, helping connect visitors with the challenges elephants face in the wild, including habitat loss and poaching.

“Tembo was more than an animal in our care, she was family to so many people who worked with and loved her throughout the years,” said Fawn Moser, Chief Operating Officer of the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. “This was an incredibly difficult decision, but also the most compassionate one we could make for her. Our team is heartbroken, but we are grateful for the many years we were able to care for Tembo and share her with our community.”

Tembo had recently been living as the zoo’s sole elephant following the loss of her companion, Cora, in 2025. Zoo officials said animal care staff had focused extensively on enrichment, training exercises and specialized geriatric care to support Tembo in her later years.

The Topeka Zoo family extends heartfelt gratitude to the animal care staff and veterinary professionals who devoted their hearts and talents to Tembo’s health and happiness. Their compassion exemplifies the Zoo’s commitment to the highest standards of animal wellbeing and the profound relationships formed through a lifetime of care.