Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium says a 17 year old male giraffe has died. Sam lived as part of a herd at the African Grasslands exhibit. He was was born July 23, 2001 and died Tuesday morning.
Zoo officials say Sam has had a history of degenerative joint disease for several years. He had been on a variety of treatments to minimize his discomfort during that time.
Sam "was a crowd favorite and will be missed by keepers and visitors," zoo officials said. There is currently one male and nine females at the African Grasslands habitat, including his 25 year old mom, Daisy and daughter Penelope, 11 months.