An elephant with a “lively” and “inquisitive spirit” has died after receiving “around-the-clock care,” the San Diego Zoo announced in November.
Inhlonipho, or Nipho, was an “incomparable” African savanna elephant who was born at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to mom Umngani, “who continues to thrive in the Elephant Valley herd.” Nipho was 15, according to FOX 5 San Diego and NBC 7 San Diego.
“Throughout his life at both the Safari Park and the Zoo, he opened the door for countless guests to connect with his endangered species, a fitting legacy for an elephant whose name means ‘courteous,’” the San Diego Zoo said on social media. The announcement was made on Nov. 11, according to FOX 5 San Diego and the San Diego Union Tribune.
Nipho joined his half-brother,
Tsandzikle, and Vus’Musi in a bachelor herd at the zoo in recent years, “bringing his lively, inquisitive spirit to the three of them as both a brother and a companion.”
The elephant’s wellness was closely monitored each day, according to the zoo. San Diego Zoo wildlife health experts provided prompt care when Nipho’s team noticed signs of stomach discomfort and lethargy.
“Despite their tireless efforts, Nipho passed away today with his wildlife care specialists by his side,” the zoo said.
The San Diego Zoo did not immediately respond to the USA TODAY Network seeking more details about Nipho and his passing.
Both Tsandzikle and Vus’Musi “were offered the opportunity to say their goodbyes to Nipho.” Their care team “remains committed to helping them navigate the period ahead,” the zoo said.
“Nipho was curiosity in motion, always engaged with everything around him. He will be profoundly missed,” the zoo said. “Please join us in holding his care team, and all who loved him, close in your thoughts.”
Social media users, including other zoos, expressed their condolences over the news.
"Sending our love from Dallas," the Texas zoo wrote in a comment.
African savanna elephant size, height
African savanna elephants are the largest species of elephant on Earth, according to the World Wildlife Fund. They can be up to 13 feet tall, according to National Geographic.
There are a few numbers associated with the lifespan of African savanna elephants. National Geographic said their average life span in the wild is up to 70 years. The Pittsburgh Zoo said their life span is up to 60 years, although it didn’t specify whether this was in the wild or in captivity. The USA TODAY Network has reached out to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for further details about the lifespan of these elephants.
These large mammals are listed as endangered as of a 2020 assessment, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species.
Paris Barraza covers Los Angeles and Southern California for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at pbarraza@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Elephant with a 'lively, inquisitive spirit' dies, San Diego Zoo says
