The San Diego Zoo announced on Friday that, Nicky, a 28-year-old Masai giraffe died last week after showing symptoms of advanced age.

Nicky was the longest-standing resident of the zoo's giraffe herd , having arrived at the San Diego Zoo in 1999.

As the herd's matriarch Nicky raised five calves including her son 'Chifu,' who made Nicky a grandma last month with the birth of her grandson named 'Madoadoa,' according to the San Diego Zoo.

The San Diego Zoo shared the following statement regarding the legacy of Nicky:

"Nicky's exceptional legacy endures through her family and the lives she touched as a powerful ambassador for her species. She forged connections between guests and the natural world, inspiring deep appreciation and conservation efforts for these gentle giants. Her impact w

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