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‘Gentle, intelligent’ 22-year-old giraffe dies at Jacksonville Zoo

Spock, 22-year-old giraffe who was euthanized (Jacksonville Zoo, Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 22-year-old giraffe named “Spock” was euthanized at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens on Monday, according to the zoo’s Facebook page.

Spock was a geriatric giraffe and the zoo said her animal care team was closely monitoring her for age-related issues including advanced arthritis. She received multiple treatments like oral and injectable medications, laser therapy, and slept in a private bedded stall.

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Spock was a second-generation descendant of one of the zoo’s founding female giraffes. Spock never had any offspring of her own, but she was the “honorary auntie” to a herd of 22 calves. She was described by the zoo as a “gentle and intelligent giraffe with a larger-than-life personality.”

The zoo said she was an amazing ambassador for her species and the community and that she inspired countless guests over the years.


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Hailing from Detroit, Jonathan is excited to start his media career at News4JAX in November 2023. He is passionate about telling stories that matter to the community and he is honored to serve Jacksonville.

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