Fancy, the oldest Visayan warty pig in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited facility, has been euthanized at age 20 due to health issues, the Brevard Zoo in Florida has announced. The zoo nursed the critically-endangered animal through 8 births during her life. Still, Fancy’s care team recently noted severe health issues, including the development of significant lesions on her right eye and arthritis. During her lifetime, she lived in the zoo’s Lands of Change exhibit and was known for her grit and love of enrichment activities such as foraging for fruits and perfumes. The decision came as part of the zoo’s commitment to comprehensive care throughout each animal’s life.
Remembering Fancy: The beloved Masai giraffe of Brevard Zoo
Brevard Zoo lost a particular member of their giraffe family in January 2021. Fancy, the 16-year-old Masai giraffe, passed away, leaving a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Introducing Fancy
Fancy was born on June 15, 2004, at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She was then transferred to Brevard Zoo in 2006, where she spent the rest of her life. She was known for her gentle demeanor and outgoing personality. Visitors often fall in love with her and return to see her again.
Fancy’s cause of death
Fancy had been showing signs of discomfort and could not stand up on her own, prompting the zookeepers to decide to euthanize her. An on-site autopsy revealed that she had severe liver disease, likely due to her age.
Remembering Fancy
Fancy’s legacy lives on at Brevard Zoo. She was a beloved member of the giraffe family and had a special bond with her caretakers. They remember her antics, like stealing their hats or licking their faces, with fondness and miss her presence dearly.
Brevard Zoo has dedicated a page on its website to honor Fancy’s memory. Visitors can leave messages of condolence or share their favorite memories of the gentle giant.
The zoo also plans to build a memorial for Fancy, a tribute to her and the other Masai giraffes who have called Brevard Zoo home over the years.
The importance of conservation
Fancy’s passing serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts for Masai giraffes. These majestic animals are currently classified as endangered, with only 35,000 remaining in the wild. Brevard Zoo supports several conservation programs, such as the Giraffe Conservation Foundation and the Giraffe Conservation Alliance, to help protect these animals and their habitats.
In conclusion, Fancy may no longer be with us, but her memory will live forever. She touched the hearts of many visitors and caretakers alike and will always be remembered as a particular member of the Brevard Zoo family.
