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Giraffe Named Jalil Dies at Birmingham Zoo

Incident Date:
05/12/2026
Location:
Birmingham, AL - USA
Facility Name:
Birmingham Zoo
Facility Type:
Accredited AZA Facility (AZA)
Incident Category:
Animal Death (AD)
Species:
Other
Animal:
Giraffe
Animal disposition:
Dead

Summary:

BIRMINGHAM, AL – A zoo in Birmingham, Ala., announced one of its longtime resident giraffes, Jalil, died on Tuesday, May 12. The 20-year-old male giraffe was euthanized “after exhausting all possible humane treatments” for his mobility issues and age-related health issues, the Birmingham Zoo announced on Wednesday, May 13.

Jalil was 16 feet tall, weighed 2,400 pounds and fathered two calves at the zoo. His death followed years of mobility-related challenges. Throughout the years, he received stem cell treatments, Adequan injections, laser therapy and routine radiographs.

He also received custom shoes, voluntary hoof trims and was given a “strategic feeding schedule and custom diet,” the Birmingham Zoo said. Along with participating in the feeding experience, he also greeted guests during the Behind-the-Scenes tours.

Action take by Born Free USA:

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