ABILENE, Texas — The Abilene Zoo announced early Monday that one of its young giraffes, Makena, died unexpectedly from natural causes.
Makena was a year and 10 months old. She was born in June 2022, and was the third calf born to Jamie and Congo at the zoo.
Her half-sibling, born just two months later, grew up with Makena and the zoo said the two delighted visitors with their energy and playful games displayed among the giraffe herd.
The cause of Makena’s death is unknown, but the zoo says a full necropsy has been performed. Staff is waiting on the final results.
“Makena was a shyer giraffe - a wallflower,” Philip Nigro, animal care supervisor, said. “She rarely ventured up to the feeding deck, so when she did, it was a real treat for our visitors. Her sweet nature made her a favorite among the keepers.”
Abilene Zoo is grateful to the community that shared in the joy that Makena brought during her life and is thankful for their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
