An elderly female giraffe at the Dehiwala National Zoological Gardens has died, according to the Director General of the National Zoological Gardens, Dr. R. C. Rajapaksa.

The giraffe, which died last night (18), was approximately 30 years old.

The Director General stated that the average lifespan of a giraffe in the wild is around 20–25 years, while giraffes can live longer under professional care in a zoo environment.

He said that no specific illness had been reported in the giraffe prior to its death, and it is believed to have died of natural causes associated with old age.

Further post-mortem examinations are scheduled to be conducted today (19).

The giraffe was able to live for nearly 30 years due to protection from predators in the zoo environment, a nutritious and balanced diet tailored to its needs, clean and suitable enclosures, continuous monitoring, and necessary veterinary care.

Under animal exchange programmes implemented by the Department of National Zoological Gardens to ensure animal welfare, maintain genetic diversity, and promote conservation, two new pairs of giraffes are scheduled to be brought to the country before the end of this year.