April the giraffe’s youngest calf, Azizi, suddenly dies at East Texas Zoo

In 2017, when the world was a much simpler time, it seemed like everyone was talking about April the giraffe.

April shot to fame when Animal Adventure Park live-streamed the birth of her calf. The educational animal park began live-streaming in February 2017, and according to Variety it quickly became on of YouTube’s most live-viewed channels.

For months, people from all over the world were glued to their screens in anticipation of watching a giraffe give birth. She finally gave birth to a boy on April 15 in front of a crowd of 1.2 million.

On March 16, 2019, April gave birth to another son, Azizi. This birth, which was also live-streamed though to a much smaller crowd, would be her last.

Giraffe Welcome 2019March 16th 12:43 pmWelcome to the world little one! Early this morning, April’s behavior…

Posted by Animal Adventure Park on Saturday, March 16, 2019

In November 2019, it was announced that Azizi would be moving to East Texas Zoo in Grand Saline, Texas.

Since he was no longer dependent on April for nutrition, it was time for him to transition to “his next chapter in life.”

“It is bittersweet to see Azizi move onto his next chapter in life,” the park said. “However, the team at Animal Adventure understands that these transitions are crucial in order to serve the purpose of our propagation program, which is producing genetically viable animals that continue to diversify the sustainable captive population of reticulated giraffes.”

We have a name!Azizi (Ah-ZEE-ZEE) "Azi" "Az"Fans cast their votes in an online naming contest, narrowing the…

Posted by Animal Adventure Park on Monday, April 1, 2019

Unfortunately, only months after Azizi arrived at East Texas Zoo, the youngest offspring of the famous April the giraffe unexpectedly died.

The zoo shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook.

Azizi had reportedly been receiving treatment for a “parasitic issue” and everything appeared to be working, but during an examination on Tuesday he passed away.

“Post-mortem review revealed a twisted gut around his cranial mesenteric artery, which was ultimately the cause of his death. This condition was entirely unexpected and unpreventable.”

The East Texas Zoo and Gator Park is mourning the loss of a cherished member of our family, Azizi the Giraffe, who…

Posted by Canton Grand Safari Adventure on Wednesday, October 28, 2020

“Azizi will be remembered fondly and deeply missed.”

This is so heartbreaking! My heart goes out to everyone who took care of Azizi.

Share this to send your condolences and share your support.