Toronto Zoo giraffe Kiko died from cardiac failure after getting stuck

Article content

The zoo has received the final post-mortem report on Kiko from the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, which says the giraffe died from cardiac failure associated with acute muscle exertion.

Article content

“This occurred after Kiko became entrapped in a small gap between the slide/shift door and a vertical post when the door was opening, an incident resulting in almost immediate death,” the zoo said in a press release.

“This process, referred to as “exertional myopathy,” can occur with periods of intense increased activity – as was the case with Kiko trying to free himself – resulting in a release and subsequent build-up of muscle enzymes that cause tissue damage.”

The zoo explained “it was a routine move for Kiko that our team has done thousands of times without incident, and staff were fully trained and followed procedures for shifting giraffes, which makes this outcome even more difficult for all who cared for Kiko to accept. Kiko’s loss requires us to face uncomfortable facts: this tragedy stemmed from an unforeseen vulnerability when the door is opening.”

Article content

Zoo taking steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again

As a result, the zoo has initiated a bunch of steps, including reviewing staff training documents to determine if any updates are required and launching a thorough review by an independent third-party to review human factors and processes.

In addition, a special inspection by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to review animal care processes has been booked and there will be an internal review of all animal habitat retrofits (existing and future) to ensure safety for staff and animals, with an immediate focus on those areas with hydraulic doors.

“We are committed to learning everything we can from this heartbreaking loss and making changes as required based on any findings to aid in preventing this from happening in the future at our zoo or any zoo that is privileged to care for these majestic animals,” said the zoo.

In the meantime, the zoo is closely monitoring Mstari, a female Masai giraffe, who is in her late stage of pregnancy, after her union with Kiko.

“We have received questions from our community about Mstari raising a calf on her own,” said the zoo.

“Male giraffes play little to no direct role in raising their calves, as parental care is almost entirely the responsibility of the mother and, at times, other females in a group setting.”

Share this article in your social network