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During the past several weeks, Zoo Miami has experienced a series of heartbreaking losses made even more difficult because of how closely together they have occurred.
From July 25 to Sept. 26, several high visibility animals have died from a variety of causes.
They include two lions, a gaur, a dromedary camel, a giant eland, and a Bactrian camel. Such losses can often generate concern and worry from those who support the zoo and care deeply about the animals that live here.
However, it is important to consider the context in which those deaths occurred as most are the result of geriatric issues from animals that live longer under the care of accredited zoos than they would in the wild.
At Zoo Miami, they are protected from disease, predation, and famine. Because of this, age-related conditions such as arthritis, organ failure, and other chronic illnesses become a more common cause of mortality. That was the case with are our lions, gaur, and dromedary camel that all lived beyond typical wildlife spans.
Zoo Miami has been open for over 45 years and many of its animals are facing age-related challenges. Each additional day with them is a gift.
Tragically, we also suffered losses of life that were sudden and unexpected. Zoos, like any environment where animals are being cared for, can experience unpreventable accidents or circumstances that lead to the premature death of an animal despite strict safety protocols and the best veterinary care. Sadly, that was the cause of death of our giant eland that accidently choked on her food and aspirated it into her lungs which proved fatal.
Similarly, some animals, like people, may develop illnesses, without warning, that can lead to complications resulting in a premature death. Our Bactrian camel showed acute complications, including fluid in his abdomen and around his heart, kidney issues, a serious infection, and pneumonia, immediately prior to his death.
These occurrences, though heartbreaking and difficult, should not overshadow the essential role zoos play in conservation and education. Through animal care, conservation programs, and breeding efforts, zoos serve as an insurance policy for threatened and endangered species against a very uncertain future in the wild. They also serve as important centers of public education, inspiring millions of visitors each year to develop a better understanding of our world’s wildlife and the desperate need to protect it.
Although loss is an inevitable part of caring for wildlife, Zoo Miami remains committed to being an essential partner in the global effort to protect and preserve wildlife for future generations. In doing so, we will continue to be transparent and honest in sharing with you both the ups and the downs along the way.
Ron Magill
Zoo Goodwill Ambassador/Communications Director
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