Hogle Zoo mourns passing of geriatric reticulated giraffe
Dec 24, 2021, 4:09 PM
(Utah's Hogle Zoo)
SALT LAKE CITY— Long time Hogle Zoo resident, Riley the giraffe, passed away Thursday. Riley had been suffering for several months with age-related health challenges including arthritis. Riley had been at Hogle Zoo for 18 years, fathering six calves in his time there. At 17 feet and 2,000 pounds, the large giraffe was the most gregarious of the herd.
According to a release from the Hogle Zoo, “Riley’s legacy and longevity are a testament to his dedicated team of animal care members, ensuring his well-being was a top commitment. According to the AZA Giraffe SSP, the average lifespan for a male reticulated giraffe is 14.7 years.”
Associate Director of Animal Care, Bob Cisneros said, “Riley was truly a giant; without a doubt, the first animal to stand out amongst others as guests first enter the zoo. He touched the hearts of many as a tall and dignified ambassador especially during our giraffe feeds.”