Zoo Mourns Loss of Beloved Giraffe Following Leg Injury

Updated: March 13, 2025

Brownsville, Texas (February 28, 2025) – It is with heavy hearts that staff at the Gladys Porter Zoo announce the passing of its massive male giraffe, Malcolm, who sustained an incapacitating injury on Saturday, February 22nd. After exhausting all efforts, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize him.

In the early morning hours, as night keepers were making their last rounds, they found Malcolm

on the ground in the giraffe barn. While bright and alert, he appeared unable to get up. Veterinary and animal care teams were notified. Shortly thereafter, a plan was devised to assist the massive giraffe in getting his legs under him. Maintenance technicians installed a hoist high in the barn to lift Malcom’s 2,500 pounds and help him to his feet. If he remained down, life-threatening circulatory issues would begin to set in.

Repeated attempts to get him to stand failed; after each unsuccessful attempt, the Zoo’s veterinary team provided supportive care. Eventually, with Malcolm obviously exhausted by his struggles, the operation was abandoned for humane reasons.

According to Deborah Carboni, DVM, the Zoo’s Director of Animal Health, upon necropsy it was discovered that Malcom had a ruptured ligament and torn muscle at the left hip joint that resulted in his inability to successfully bear weight and regain a standing position. Staff suspect that he may have been trying to breed one of the females with which he shared a large stall, lost his footing, and fell.

Due to several physiological and anatomical factors, these types of injuries often end fatally for giraffes, especially ones as large as Malcolm. Treatment is not as simple as it is for smaller animals, which can be surgically mended and fitted with a cast. Giraffes, like horses, can lay down for short periods, but spend the majority of their time on their feet. Their need to remain mobile and on their feet makes healing difficult-to-impossible. That, coupled with the sheer size and weight of these animals, can put immense stress on a leg injury. It also increases the risk of the animal falling and worsening the injury or creating new ones.

“This is never a decision we make lightly,” said Walter DuPree, Mammal Curator. “Our team weighed all possible options, but ultimately, we had to prioritize Malcolm’s welfare and prevent further suffering. Our staff, especially those who worked directly with him, are devastated by this loss. We know that our Zoo community will join us in mourning this magnificent animal.”

Malcolm, a 17-foot-tall giraffe, had become a beloved member of the Zoo family. He quickly became known for his gentle nature and towering presence.

Malcolm played a crucial role in our giraffe conservation efforts. From the moment he made his debut in Brownsville, he inspired countless visitors at the Zoo and proved to be a wonderful ambassador for his species.

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