April, the giraffe, known for her viral (and apparently eternal) pregnancy, died at age 20. She passed away at Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, New York, where she gained international followers during her pregnancy broadcast live in 2017.
The giraffe was euthanized on Friday due to worsening arthritis on the recommendation of its veterinary team, the zoo said in a Facebook post.
Her care team noticed changes in mobility in April last summer and diagnosed her with osteoarthritis, which “can be expected in a giraffe her age,” according to a statement from her veterinary team. The park managed April’s condition with painkillers, anti-inflammatories, trimmed hooves, newly installed padded flooring and dietary changes, but the severity of the arthritis overcame “the team’s ability to control April’s comfort.” Euthanasia was the most humane action, the team said.
The live broadcast of the 2017 pregnancy in April was watched by millions of people around the world, which proved to be a great source of income. When she finally gave birth to Tajiri in April 2017, her stream had 232 million live views. People reports that add up to an impressive 7.6 billion minutes of live viewing.
“Since then, April has been one of the most famous animals in the world and, in turn, has had a profound impact on the conservation, education and appreciation of giraffes,” said the zoo in its Facebook post announcing the death of April. “Although her footprints in the yard will wear out over time, the mark she left on the hearts of people around the world will never disappear.”
April’s body was sent to Cornell University Veterinary School for an autopsy. Then it will be cremated and its ashes will be returned to Animal Adventure Park.
Jordan Patch, owner of Animal Adventure Park, described April as “a precious member of our family”.
“The loss of an animal as beloved as it will be felt in our community, across the country and around the world,” said Patch in a Facebook post. “We appreciate the respect and empathy of April fans and park supporters during this difficult time, while they suffer together with us. She will be sorely missed and will be remembered fondly. April, in her special way, changed the world.”