Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Euthanized Oldest Giraffe Amani
The 26-year-old reticulated giraffe was euthanized following a rapid decline in health.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Wildlife
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo staff in Colorado Springs made the difficult decision to euthanize Amani, the herd's oldest giraffe, after a sudden downturn in her health. At 26 years old, Amani was a significant member of the zoo and a beloved figure among guests.
Why it matters
Amani's passing marks a notable loss for the facility, as she significantly outlived the median life expectancy for female giraffes in human care. Her care team emphasized that the decision was made due to worsening age-related health issues.
Amani was 26 years old at the time of her passing, making her the ninth oldest giraffe within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The median life expectancy for female giraffes living in human care is 20 years.
The players
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Located in Colorado Springs, this facility is a major regional institution accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
This nonprofit organization provides accreditation to zoos and aquariums that meet high standards for animal care and welfare.
The details
The 26-year-old reticulated giraffe spent her final day surrounded by staff and visitors, enjoying her favorite browse, crackers, and lettuce. The care team opted for euthanasia after observing a rapid decline in her condition that was attributed to her advanced age.
Timeline
Amani was born in 1999.
Staff euthanized Amani on October 7, 2026.
Culture Shift
The loss of Amani highlights the ongoing management challenges for giraffes participating in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. Such milestones reflect a shift toward highly personalized geriatric care protocols for aging animals in modern zoo settings.
Residents and frequent visitors to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo may notice the absence of the herd's oldest giraffe during upcoming visits. The facility continues to care for other aging animals, including a 48-year-old elephant named Kimba.
The takeaway
Amani reached an age that significantly surpassed typical expectations for her species due to professional veterinary monitoring. Zoo guests often form deep connections with long-term animal residents, reflecting the importance of human-animal interaction in conservation education.
Further reading
Learn more about local conservation efforts in our Wildlife section.
