The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is facing a sad moment as they announce the passing of Rafiki, a beloved 13-year-old male giraffe known for his presence in the zoo's Giraffe Feeding area. According to WESH, Rafiki succumbed to a chronic illness yesterday after what the zoo described as a long struggle to manage and treat his condition. Despite efforts by a dedicated team of keepers, veterinarians, and experts from the Association of Zoo and Aquariums (AZA), it became clear that his declining health was irreparable.

In the wake of Rafiki's death, the zoo staff and patrons collectively mourn the gentle giant who, as WFTV reported, had been an integral part of the zoo's habitat since 2014 and the larger mission to conserve his species. Rafiki was part of the Species Survival Plan, a conservation effort by zoos and aquariums to maintain genetically diverse populations of threatened species. This mission is particularly poignant given the “silent extinction” giraffes face, with their numbers down by 40% over recent generations, as highlighted by zoo officials.

Having just celebrated his 13th birthday on Oct. 22, Rafiki was a favorite among guests and played a significant role in educating visitors about his species through personal interactions at the Giraffe Feeding area.

While the Central Florida Zoo continues to welcome visitors to feed Gage, the remaining Masai giraffe, the staff requests that guests be understanding and patient during this transitional loss period.