Buccaneer, a 22-year-old reticulated giraffe who charmed millions of visitors at the ABQ BioPark over nearly two decades, was euthanized Thursday due to declining mobility from arthritis, zoo officials announced.
The giraffe, affectionately known as “Bucc,” was the third-oldest male giraffe in any Association of Zoos and Aquariums facility and lived well beyond the median life expectancy of 16.5 years for his species, according to BioPark assistant animal curator Casey Taylor.
“Since then, he has charmed his way into the hearts of countless guests and was highly regarded by his caretakers,” Taylor said in a statement. “He will be deeply missed by all who cared for him.”…