The San Diego Zoo euthanized a 45-year-old Asian Elephant named Devi on Thursday after her health and mobility had declined.
Devi arrived at the San Diego Zoo in 1977 from an elephant orphanage in Sri Lanka, according to Zoo officials in a statement. She was raised in the former Children’s Zoo and was the second oldest elephant.
“Devi was beloved at the San Diego Zoo and she will be sorely missed by all of us who cared for her on a daily basis,” Ann Alfama, a wildlife care supervisor at the zoo, said in a statement. “We find some comfort in knowing that she leaves an amazing legacy as an ambassador for her species.”
Prior to Devi’s passing, Zoo officials administered Hydrotherapy, physical therapy, and stem cell therapy to alleviate age-related ailments. Her mobility continued to decline despite these efforts.
“After monitoring her closely and evaluating the quality of life options, wildlife care specialists made the difficult decision to compassionately euthanize her,” the Zoo wrote in a statement.
Zoo officials said Devi “inspired guests from all over the world to understand the importance of elephant conservation and leaves behind a remarkable legacy as an ambassador for her species."
“Devi will be greatly missed by all those who knew her. Please take a moment to offer your condolences to all who are feeling this loss,” the Zoo wrote in a statement.
A San Diego Zoo factsheet says Asian elephants can live 60 to 70 years in the wild, and the oldest in “managed care” lived about 80 years.
