SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- The San Diego Zoo Monday announced the death of Tembo, a beloved elephant at the zoo.
According to tweets from the zoo, staff made the decision to euthanize the 48-year-old elephant on Saturday.
“She had been under veterinary care, including stem cell therapy to alleviate age-related ailments over a long period of time,” one of the tweets read.
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“On Saturday, animal care staff noted a sudden change in Tembo’s condition, including behaviors that indicated severe discomfort. After evaluating quality of life options, staff made the difficult decision to compassionately euthanize her.”
Tembo had lived at the zoo since 1983 where she formed strong relationships with other elephants and animal care staff, the zoo said.
She came to the zoo from private owners who used her as an animal actor.
