BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) — A beloved 55-year-old Asian elephant at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo has passed away.

Happy, who arrived at the Bronx Zoo in 1977, was euthanized due to progressive, age-related health conditions, the Wildlife Conservation Society announced on Wednesday.

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Craig Piper, the Interim Bronx Zoo Director and Executive Vice President for Wildlife Conservation Society Zoos and Aquariums, sent a statement that reads in part:

“We are deeply saddened to report that Happy, who was loved by staff and visitors at the Bronx Zoo for nearly 50 years, was euthanized on Tuesday, May 26. Following ongoing assessments of her condition and quality of life, this difficult decision was made when it became clear that her age-related conditions had progressed. She died peacefully, surrounded by the keepers, curators, and veterinarians who have cared for her; some for more than 30 years.

“Happy spent her final weeks having access to the elephant barn and outdoor yard spaces where she was most comfortable, with the choice of where she wanted to be. She continued to interact with her keepers during daily routines and remained under the attentive care of the staff members who knew her best.”

Piper noted that testing found signs of potential declining kidney or liver function and large inoperable uterine tumors. Despite medical management and therapy, Happy’s condition continued to worsen.

“She was a wonderful elephant,” interim zoo director Craig Piper said in an interview Wednesday, as heavy-hearted staffers absorbed the loss of an animal some had tended for over 30 years. “She served as a tremendous ambassador for elephants and for elephant conservation.”

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.

Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.

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