April the giraffe,??? ?? known for her viral (and seemingly eternal) pregnancy, has died at 20 years old. She passed away at Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville, New York, where she gained an international following during her livestreamed pregnancy in 2017.
The giraffe was euthanized on Friday due to worsening arthritis at the recommendation of her veterinary team, the zoo said in a Facebook post.
Her care team noticed changes in April's mobility last summer, and diagnosed her with osteoarthritis, which "can be expected in a giraffe of her age," per a statement from her veterinary team. The park managed April's condition with pain medication, anti-inflammatories, hoof trimming, newly installed padded floor, and dietary changes, but severity of her arthritis outpaced the team's "ability to control April's comfort." Euthanasia was the most humane action, the team said.
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April's 2017 pregnancy livestream was watched by millions around the world, which proved to be a massive moneymaker. When she finally gave birth to Tajiri in April 2017, her stream had 232 million live views. Peoplereports that adds up to a staggering 7.6 billion minutes of live watching.
"Since then, April has been one of the world's most famous animals, and in turn, has made a profound impact on giraffe conservation, education, and appreciation," the zoo said in its Facebook post announcing April's passing. "While her hoofprints in her yard will erode in time, the imprint she has made on the hearts of people around the world will never fade."
April's body was sent to Cornell University Veterinary School for a necropsy. Then, she'll be cremated and her ashes will be returned to Animal Adventure Park.
Jordan Patch, owner of Animal Adventure Park, described April as "a precious member of our family."
"The loss of an animal as loved as her will be felt in our community, around the country, and across the world," Patch said in the Facebook post. "We appreciate respect and empathy from April's fans and the park's supporters during this difficult time, as they grieve along with us. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. April, in her own special way, changed the world."