Oklahoma City Zoo has said that its 20-year-old caracal, Azalea, was put down on 5 April at the zoo’s Joan Kirkpatrick Animal Hospital in response to age-related health issues. Known as “ZZ” to her caretakers, Azalea was the zoo’s oldest small cat. Despite being affected by seizures, she had actively taken part in her own medical care throughout her senior years, participating in voluntary blood draws, injections and fluid administration. Caracals, whose average lifespan is 12 years, are native to parts of Africa, the Middle East and India, and are recognised by the large tufts of black hair on their ears.
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OKC ZOO Saddened to Announce Passing of Caracal, Azalea “ZZ”
The Oklahoma City Zoo has recently announced the unfortunate passing of Azalea “ZZ”, a 15-year-old female caracal. The OKC Zoo veterinary team made the difficult decision to euthanize ZZ due to age-related health concerns that were affecting her quality of life.
A Beloved Member of the OKC Zoo Family
ZZ was a beloved member of the OKC Zoo family for many years. She arrived at the zoo in 2006 as part of an animal exchange program with the San Diego Zoo. Over the years, ZZ became a favorite among zookeepers and visitors alike.
Caracals are medium-sized wild cats native to Africa and parts of Asia. They are known for their distinctive tufted ears and exceptional jumping abilities. While not typically domesticated, caracals can bond closely with humans and make remarkably affectionate pets.
An End for ZZ’s Suffering
Despite ZZ’s popularity at the zoo, her advanced age was taking a significant toll on her physical health. Due to age-related declines, ZZ was experiencing a reduced ability to move around and had difficulty eating and drinking.
The zoo’s veterinary team worked tirelessly to manage ZZ’s health as best they could, providing her with a nurturing environment where she could live out her final days in comfort. However, as ZZ’s health continued to decline, the team recognized that the kindest thing they could do for her was to alleviate her suffering.
A Legacy that Will Live On
The loss of ZZ is a tragic one for the OKC Zoo community. However, it is comforting to know that her legacy will live on. As a long-time resident of the zoo, ZZ played an important role in educating visitors about the importance of conservation efforts and the unique qualities of African wildlife.
Moreover, the OKC Zoo’s conservation efforts will continue to ensure that caracals, along with other endangered species, are protected for future generations to enjoy.
Wrapping Up
The OKC Zoo’s carousel exhibit will not be the same without Azalea “ZZ.” Her passing is a marker of the fragile and precious nature of life, and a reminder of the need to appreciate, cherish, and protect the natural world.
In the end, ZZ’s legacy is one of strength, resilience, and dedication to conservation. The Oklahoma City Zoo community will always remember and cherish the memory of this remarkable wild cat, and the impact she had on visitors and staff alike.
