St. Louis Zoo euthanizes 15-year-old reticulated giraffe Ella after sudden decline and chronic arthritis
Zoo says decision followed rapid onset of immobility in senior animal
The Saint Louis Zoo has euthanized a 15½-year-old female reticulated giraffe named Ella after she was found unable to stand in the giraffe barn on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026. Zoo staff said animal care and animal health teams responded immediately, but her condition did not improve, prompting a decision to humanely euthanize her following an assessment of health and quality of life.
Zoo officials noted that giraffes’ body size creates unique medical challenges when an animal becomes unable to rise. Even healthy giraffes require substantial effort to stand from a lying position, and prolonged immobility can quickly lead to complications. Ella was described as being in the senior age range for her species and was receiving treatment for chronic arthritis.
Ella’s history at the Zoo and public-facing role
Ella arrived at the Saint Louis Zoo in 2012 and became a recognizable presence in the Red Rocks area, where the Zoo’s giraffes are exhibited. The Zoo said she was among the tallest giraffes on site and frequently participated in guest experiences, including behind-the-scenes encounters and scheduled giraffe feedings.
Zoo programming in recent years has emphasized close, controlled interactions that allow guests to feed giraffes by hand at set times, a format designed to manage animal choice and welfare while maintaining a predictable environment for both animals and visitors.
Ella was found unable to stand on Feb. 13, and her condition did not improve after immediate veterinary and keeper intervention, the Zoo said.
How euthanasia decisions are typically made in large hoofstock care
While the Zoo did not provide a detailed medical timeline beyond arthritis treatment and the acute episode on Feb. 13, large-hoofstock welfare assessments commonly weigh mobility, pain control, ability to eat and drink normally, and the likelihood of recovery. In giraffes, arthritis and age-related degenerative changes can reduce mobility and increase the risk of falls or difficulty rising, conditions that can become urgent if an animal becomes recumbent.
Broader context: giraffes at the Saint Louis Zoo and future plans
Ella’s death comes as the Zoo continues expanding its regional footprint. The Saint Louis Zoo is developing WildCare Park, a 425-acre safari park and conservation center in north St. Louis County scheduled to open in 2027. The Zoo has already moved young reticulated giraffes into a dedicated giraffe barn at the future site, with plans for a larger herd by the time WildCare Park opens.
Date Ella was found unable to stand: Feb. 13, 2026
Announcement date: Feb. 17, 2026
Species: reticulated giraffe
Key health factor cited by the Zoo: chronic arthritis