A 50-year old elephant at the San Diego Zoo was euthanized Tuesday after he suddenly became became ill, the zoo confirmed.
Ranchiput had been under veterinary care for several years at the Conrad Prebys Elephant Care Center in Elephant Odyssey. He had a variety of geriatric ailments, the zoo said in a statement.
On Tuesday morning, animal care staff members noticed that Ranchipur appeared to have medical difficulties. The elephant was weak and leaning on an utilitree for support. Staff members attempted to give medical assistance but Ranchipur was not responsive.
The zoo says staff members made the decision to euthanize him to reduce his suffering.
Ranchipur was a non-breeding elephant and had lived at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park from 1981 to 2009. He was moved to the San Diego Zoo after the Elephant Odyssey was built.
The care center is a sanctuary for elephants of Asian and African species that need extensive medical care.
According to the zoo, due to wildlife trafficking, Ranchipur’s tusks, which each weigh about 100 pounds, will be removed and properly disposed.
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The zoo will conduct an autopsy to determine why the elephant suddenly fell ill.
