Oklahoma City zoo says nation’s oldest giraffe dies at 32

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The Oklahoma City zoo says the oldest giraffe in an American zoo has died at the age of 32.

A Rothschild’s giraffe named Ursula died Wednesday afternoon. The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden said female giraffes typically live 19 1/2 years.

The zoo said Ursula suffered from chronic arthritis in her lower legs, which made it difficult for her to walk. Veterinarians attempted treatments to reduce her inflammation but ultimately decided to euthanize the animal.

Ursula gave birth to eight offspring. She had been at the Oklahoma City zoo for more than three decades.