The Toronto Zoo confronts a tragic loss after a postmortem examination revealed an unforeseen vulnerability caused the death of its 13-year-old Masai giraffe, Kiko.
Incident Details
Kiko died on New Year’s Day from cardiac failure linked to acute muscle exertion. His head became trapped in a narrow gap between a slide door and a vertical post during a standard habitat shift. Staff followed all trained procedures for the routine move, performed thousands of times without prior issues, leading to this shocking outcome.
The final postmortem, conducted by the Ontario Veterinary College, identified no other health problems or underlying conditions.
Ongoing Reviews and Inspections
In response, the zoo initiates multiple reviews, including an independent third-party assessment and a targeted inspection by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. These steps aim to address the habitat vulnerability and prevent future incidents.
Update on Pregnant Companion Giraffe
Community inquiries focus on Mstari, the female Masai giraffe in late-stage pregnancy carrying Kiko’s calf. As a single mother, she aligns with natural giraffe behavior. Males typically return to feeding, roaming, and mating pursuits after breeding, without providing offspring care or protection.
