Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, New York, is mourning the loss of a popular six-year-old Masai giraffe named Parker. The beloved animal was tragically found dead after getting his neck caught in a gate in his enclosure.
Vets rushed to the scene to try and save Parker, but it was too late. According to Superintendent Steve Lacy, the gate had been installed in 2018 and was a standard giraffe enclosure feature. He stated, “The possibility of this kind of event happening was unforeseen and unprecedented.”
Parker arrived at the zoo in 2018 and was in excellent health at the time. He fathered a baby giraffe, named Olmstead, who was born last April. Both the staff and zoo guests were fond of Parker and his death has been a great loss to the zoo community.
Seneca Park Zoo veterinarian Chris McKinney commented, “He had been in excellent health prior to this and was a joy to both staff and visitors. He will be sorely missed by all.”
An autopsy confirmed Parker died due to a broken neck and died instantly. In response to this tragedy, the zoo has taken steps to modify the structure and prevent any future accidents from occurring.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums president and CEO, Dan Ashe, expressed his condolences saying, “Our hearts go out to the Seneca Park community and all the dedicated professionals at Seneca Park Zoo with the news of the death of their giraffe Parker.” Monroe county executive Adam Bello also shared his sentiments, “This is a tragedy for the Seneca Park Zoo community. From the staff who cared for and loved Parker, to the zoo guests and members who had their visits brightened by Parker’s presence, we are all grieving this tremendous loss.”
