Parker the Giraffe Tragically Dies at New York Zoo, How Did It Happen?

Have you ever been to the Seneca Zoo in Rochester, New York? This place holds special memories for the families that have visited over the years to see everything from their African Elephants to Grey Wolves, Olive Baboon and everyone's favorite giraffe, Parker.

Sad news to report this week as Parker the giraffe has passed away. The news itself is sad but even more tragic when you learn how Parker passed away. Zoo officials are calling this "unexpected and unprecedented".

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According to News10 in Rochester, Parker the 6-year-old Masai Giraffe got stuck in an enclosure over the weekend and fractured his neck. The gentle giant did not survive his injuries and that death was almost instant.

Parker has been at the Seneca Park Zoo for nearly 5 years and in that time he became a dad to Olmsted, who was born just shy of a year ago.

Seneca Zoo set up a Facebook Fundraiser page in memory of Parker. The intent is to raise money that will help support the continued efforts of the zoo's partners at the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

Parker will be sorely missed by all. He had been in excellent health prior to this and was a joy to both staff and visitors. - Seneca Park Zoo Veterinarian Chris McKinney