Overview

• A team of three veterinarians and two veterinary nurses sedated Nzuri to assess complications when the calf’s head and neck were found in an abnormal position that made a safe birth impossible.
• The unborn calf was confirmed deceased and Nzuri’s condition deteriorated, leading staff to humanely euthanise her to prevent further suffering.
• Since opening in late 2019, Sydney Zoo has recorded recurring fatalities across multiple species, prompting independent investigations and habitat modifications.
• Notable past incidents include the 2020 death of giraffe Gigi from acute enteritis, the 2021 drowning of chimpanzee Mogli after a barrier breach and the May 2025 loss of two bull sharks from trauma consistent with accidental impact.
• The latest tragedy has accelerated an operational review aimed at strengthening animal welfare and enclosure safety protocols.