Los Angeles Zoo Mourns Loss of Elephant Shaunzi After Euthanasia

Shaunzi, a 53-year-old Asian elephant at the Los Angeles Zoo, was euthanized after she was found unable to stand, the zoo announced Thursday. Despite extensive efforts by animal care staff and veterinarians, Shaunzi remained unable to stand, leading to the difficult decision to euthanize her.

Upon discovering Shaunzi’s inability to stand on Tuesday night, the zoo’s animal care team and veterinarians immediately intervened, working tirelessly to assist her. Despite their exhaustive efforts, they could not help Shaunzi regain her standing ability.

Heartbreaking Decision and Plans for Necropsy:

The zoo made the poignant decision to sedate and euthanize Shaunzi on Wednesday. An autopsy was planned to determine the cause of her inability to stand, according to Carl Myers, a spokesperson for the zoo.

Originally from Thailand, Shaunzi had a history in the circus before residing at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo in 1983. She later moved to the Los Angeles Zoo in 2017. Her life span exceeded the median life expectancy for female Asian elephants in human care, indicating she lived a full life.

Conservation and Endangered Species:

Asian elephants, classified as endangered, face threats due to habitat destruction and poaching. With only around 40,000 remaining in the wild, their preservation remains a critical concern for conservationists.

The zoo praised Shaunzi for serving as an ambassador for her species, educating visitors about the challenges Asian elephants face in their native habitats. 

Her role in raising awareness about wildlife conservation endeared her to zoo staff, members, and millions of visitors who frequented the Los Angeles Zoo. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.