SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Zoo is mourning the loss of Epulu, a beloved male okapi who spent more than a decade at the zoo and played an important role in conservation efforts for his endangered species.
The zoo announced Epulu recently died while under the care of its veterinary and animal care teams. His caretakers began noticing signs of colic and a loss of appetite last week. Despite medical treatment and supportive care, zoo officials said his condition continued to deteriorate.
Epulu arrived at the San Antonio Zoo in 2014 when he was 2 years old and quickly became a favorite among his caretakers and visitors.
“Epulu was a remarkable ambassador for his species and a beloved member of our zoo family,” San Antonio Zoo President and CEO Tim Morrow said. “His legacy lives on through his offspring and the vital conservation work he inspired. Our hearts go out to the care team who loved him so well.”
That legacy includes his daughter, Gates. Epulu and his mate, Ludimi, welcomed Gates in 2023, marking an important milestone for the Okapi Species Survival Plan.
Gates now lives at the Los Angeles Zoo as part of a coordinated breeding program aimed at supporting the future of the endangered species. The San Antonio Zoo said it will continue working with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums to determine the next steps for its okapi program.
Zoo officials described Epulu as gentle and social. He enjoyed greeting guests, following his keepers around for snacks, and getting his ears scratched. He was also known for sticking out his tongue and for having strong opinions about celery.