Denver Zoo Says Goodbye to Beloved Llama Jorge
The 23-year-old animal was euthanized after suffering from an untreatable gastrointestinal condition.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Large Animals
The Denver Zoo recently announced the passing of Jorge, a 23-year-old llama who became a fixture at the facility. Care teams euthanized the animal in a barn after he developed a serious, age-related gastrointestinal condition.
Why it matters
Jorge significantly surpassed the average llama lifespan of 15 years, highlighting the specialized care provided to aging animals at the zoo. His death marks the end of a long tenure that began when he joined the zoo in 2015 following a career as a pack animal.
While the average lifespan for a llama is 15 years, well-cared-for llamas can reach 20 years or more. Jorge lived to 23 years, with his time at the Denver Zoo spanning 11 years since his arrival in 2015.
The players
Denver Zoo
This AZA-accredited facility in Colorado is home to thousands of animals and focuses on conservation and education.
Llama Colorado
This organization specializes in pack llama services, utilizing the animals for trekking and equipment transport across mountainous terrain.
The details
Jorge, who previously served as a pack llama in the Rocky Mountains, was surrounded by his dedicated care team during the final procedure. The decision to euthanize followed the diagnosis of a gastrointestinal condition that experts determined could not be treated given his advanced age.
Timeline
Jorge arrived at the Denver Zoo in 2015.
The Denver Zoo announced the euthanasia of Jorge on October 30, 2026.
Culture Shift
The attention given to Jorge's final days reflects the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' geriatric animal care standards, which prioritize quality of life for aging zoo residents. This shift represents a broader societal move toward treating animal longevity with increased empathy and specialized medical oversight.
Visitors who frequented the zoo may notice changes to the habitat area formerly occupied by Jorge. The zoo often updates its animal exhibits following the loss of a long-term resident to ensure appropriate space and care for remaining animals.
The takeaway
Geriatric care for animals requires monitoring both chronic conditions and quality of life as they surpass typical life expectancy benchmarks. Providing end-of-life care in a familiar environment surrounded by caregivers can minimize stress for aging animals.
Further reading
Learn more about the species at the Large Animals section of our site.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Denver Post.
