Tragic Death of Giraffe “Misti” at Ranchi’s Birsa Zoo: occurred on September 3, 2025, just 27 days after being brought from Alipore Zoo in Kolkata under an animal exchange programme. Misti was the first giraffe brought to Ranchi’s zoo in nine years, aiming to enhance the zoo’s diversity and attract visitors.
Misti, aged around 6 years, reportedly slipped and fell inside her enclosure during the night, striking her head and neck on the enclosure wall. She was found dead early morning on September 4. The fall and resultant injuries are suspected causes but are yet to be conclusively confirmed by a detailed autopsy report.
Misti was also revealed to be pregnant at the time of deathβan unexpected discovery that complicated the situation.
Death of Giraffe Postmortem Findings π§Ύ
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Mistiβs postmortem revealed injuries on the leg, head, and neck.
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She was pregnant, in her first trimester, though the exact duration was unclear.
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Speculation suggests the leg injury might have caused her to fall inside the enclosure, leading to fatal head and neck trauma.
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Samples from vital organs were sent to veterinary research institutes for deeper analysis to determine exact causes.
Contributing Factors & Zoo Management Issues ποΈ
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The giraffe was publicly displayed only one week after arrival, bypassing the standard 30-day quarantine protocol meant to let wildlife acclimatize to new environments.
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This premature exposure may have increased stress on Misti, affecting her health and adjustment.
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The zoo claimed to have invested approximately βΉ60 lakh in upgrading the giraffe enclosure, but the design or facilities may not have adequately ensured Mistiβs safety or comfort.
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Experts pointed out that giraffes need ample open space and bushy environments for natural behaviour, which were reportedly lacking at the Ranchi enclosure.
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Zoo officials and veterinary staff were largely unresponsive or silent to media queries around the tragedy, raising concerns about transparency and animal welfare governance.
Points to Remember π
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Misti was the first giraffe in Ranchi Zoo after nearly a decade, brought on August 8, 2025.
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She was six years old, with an expected natural lifespan of 17-20 years in captivity.
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Injuries likely contributed significantly to her fall and death inside the enclosure.
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The giraffe was pregnant, an important factor unknown before her arrival.
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Premature public display without proper quarantine may have led to stress and complications.
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Zoo managementβs failure to provide adequate acclimatisation and possibly insufficient enclosure design is under scrutiny.
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This incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to animal welfare norms and quarantine procedures in zoos.
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The tragedy triggered wider discussions about conditions, safety, and care standards in Indian zoos.
