Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo mourning loss of giraffe

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - Leaders at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo posted on Facebook Sunday announcing the loss of their giraffe Jelani.

The giraffe’s veterinarian says Jelani was suffering from neurological abnormalities that quickly worsened over a short time. They say they were treating him but his condition worsened and he had to be euthanized.

They say Jelani was known as the gentle giant who loved attention. He was 24 years old and was an ‘important member of their herd’.

The zoo staff says they are heartbroken but they are grateful for their animal care professionals who cared for Jelani until the end.

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