By Elizabeth Hunter
A “gentle giant” giraffe called Ronnie has passed away at Edinburgh Zoo.
Staff announced today that ‘majestic’ Ronnie, a Nubian giraffe, died at the age of eight following a short illness.
He arrived at Edinburgh Zoo in May 2021 from Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire, before being introduced to the public a month later.
Staff and visitors alike have expressed their sadness at the loss, and said Ronnie will be “greatly missed”.
Donald Gow, Animal Operations Manager at Edinburgh Zoo, said:
“We are sad to share the news that Ronnie the Nubian giraffe has passed away at the age of eight following a short illness.
“Ronnie joined the zoo from Woburn Safari Park in 2021 and was a wonderful ambassador for his wild relatives and brought joy to keepers, staff and visitors alike.
“He will be greatly missed.”
On a social media post announcing the news, visitors to the zoo shared their sympathies, with one commenter describing him as a “beauty,”
They added: “I loved watching him on my visits.
“Sending hugs to the keepers who have cared for and loved him.
“The rest of the herd will need extra love and care while they grieve too.”
One comment described feeding Ronnie, stating: “This is so sad I had the pleasure of hand feeding Ronnie at my magic moment experience, such a gentle giant.”
Another said: “How sad to hear. He brought a lot of pleasure to thousands of people.”
One comment read: “R.I.P. great Ronnie, time to rest.
“Thank you for being gloriously majestic.”
