Memphis Zoo ‘Mourns Deeply’ for Angela Kate, Beloved Giraffe Who Died After Falling in Exhibit
"Her memory will forever live on in our hearts and within the legacy of Memphis Zoo," the team wrote in a Facebook post
The team at Memphis Zoo is mourning the loss of one of their beloved giraffes.
On Thursday, the Tennessee establishment confirmed giraffe Angela Kate had sadly died after falling and injuring herself while in the exhibit area overnight on March 5.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Angela Kate, one of the most popular and beloved female giraffes at the Memphis Zoo," the zoo confirmed in a Facebook post.
"The severity of her injuries left no possibility for recovery, and the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize her," the statement continued.
"While it is still unknown why she fell, the herd has been held off exhibit while an extensive regrading and resurfacing of the habitat has been prioritized to ensure the safety of the remaining members of our herd."
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Angela Kate, born at the zoo in 2006, "was the first surviving giraffe calf born at the Memphis Zoo in over 15 years," the message stated.
The zoo also revealed where the name Angela Kate came from; Angela after the daughters of two staff members who bottle-reared her, and Kate after the zoo's millionth visitor back in 2006.
Related: Spotless Giraffe Believed to Be the Only One 'Anywhere on the Planet' Born at Tennessee Zoo
"Angela is remembered fondly for creating a 'splash zone' on the giraffe deck – a favorite pastime was dipping her ear in the drinker and flicking visitors with water (a trait she systematically taught other members of her herd). She was the first and most constant presence at giraffe chats and the giraffe deck. Angela Kate was well known for not missing a free treat or a snack," the message continued.
Angela Kate's calf Ali, born in 2019, is still at Memphis Zoo, while Panya, born in 2017, is currently at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Ja Raffe, born in 2020, is currently at Hogle Zoo, and Lily, born in 2022, is currently at Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo.
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The team concluded, "The Memphis Zoo team mourns deeply for Angela Kate's passing, cherishing the memory of her immense presence. We also reflect on the profound impact she had on both our Zoo as well as the countless lives she touched during her time with us. Her memory will forever live on in our hearts and within the legacy of Memphis Zoo."
Memphis Zoo is also home to giraffes Niklas, Wendy, Maliki, Ali, and Lily, according to the website.
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