Giraffe Nzuri and Unborn Calf Die During Labour at Sydney Zoo

Sydney Zoo has announced the death of its female giraffe, Nzuri, and her unborn calf following severe complications during labour. 

According to a statement released by the zoo, animal care staff noticed signs of active labour late at night, but the birth did not progress normally. A dedicated team of three veterinarians and two veterinary nurses was immediately mobilised to assist with the delivery. Despite their efforts, both the mother and calf could not be saved.

The zoo explained that under anaesthesia, the team discovered the calf in an abnormal position. Its front legs were emerging, but the head and neck were malpositioned, making a safe delivery impossible.

 “Despite the team’s best efforts, it became evident that the calf had died and due to the stress and difficulty of the birth, Nzuri’s condition had severely deteriorated.”

With no viable options to save her, the zoo made the decision to humanely euthanise Nzuri to prevent further suffering.

Tim Bennett, Animal Care Manager Exotics, said, “This is an incredibly heartbreaking outcome for all involved. Our animal care team did everything possible to try and save both the calf and the mother, Nzuri. Decisions like this are never made lightly. The animal’s welfare is always our primary concern.”

Nzuri had just celebrated her sixth birthday last month, with the zoo sharing a post on Instagram to mark the occasion, noting she had reached a weight of 900 kilograms.

Giraffes in the wild typically live for 15 to 20 years, while those in managed care environments such as zoos can live longer due to access to veterinary care and nutrition.

Nzuri’s days at Sydney Zoo

Some captive giraffes have been recorded living up to 30 years. Studies also suggest that females tend to live longer than males, sometimes by as much as 25 percent.

Nzuri arrived at Sydney Zoo at the age of two, transferred from Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium in a specially designed giraffe crate. She had undergone months of training to acclimate to the move and was accompanied throughout the journey by zookeepers and a vet.

One of the reasons for her relocation was to participate in regional breeding programmes. She was also introduced to another female giraffe named Eyelean, who was the same age. The two bonded quickly.

“When Nzuri spotted Eyelean, the bond was instant. Giraffes communicate through sniffing each other and rubbing noses, which is exactly what we witnessed within moments of the giraffes meeting each other,” said zookeeper Frankie Douglass.

“Nzuri and Eyelean are very similar in nature, both gentle yet outgoing. It didn’t take her long to leave her crate and start exploring her new habitat at the NEW Sydney Zoo,” Douglass added. Nzuri adapted swiftly and became a favourite among visitors.