© 2024 Public Radio Tulsa
800 South Tucker Drive
Tulsa, OK 74104
(918) 631-2577

A listener-supported service of The University of Tulsa
classical 88.7 | public radio 89.5
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Cold Weather to Blame for Zoo Death

By Associated Press

Tulsa, OK – Tulsa Zoo: Giraffe's death caused by hypothermia

TULSA, Okla. (AP) Tulsa Zoo officials say a nine-year-old giraffe that died last week succumbed to hypothermia.

Officials on Tuesday released the results of a necropsy performed on Amira, who died Jan. 10 during a record-breaking cold weather.

Officials say since giraffes are susceptible to extreme cold, Amira and Samburu, the zoo's male giraffe, were housed in a heated barn.

When keepers saw Amira acting lethargically Jan. 9, the staff veterinarian was notified and employees worked to treat her.

Amira's demise came after the Dec. 3 death of 5-year-old Amali, who suffered neck injuries while being transported to Tulsa from Ohio.

Zoo officials say Tulsa Parks and Recreation Director Lucy Dolman has requested that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums inspect the zoo's veterinary program and animal care facilities and procedures.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.