Eight-year-old Masai giraffe at Houston Zoo euthanized after fall

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The Houston Zoo is mourning the loss of one of its residents. On Monday, an 8-year-old male Masai giraffe was euthanized after a fall.

According to the Houston Zoo, a veterinary team and zookeepers worked to help Mtembei, the 1.5-ton giraffe, to his feet, but ultimately had to put him down when it was clear he couldn't stand on his on his own.

Mtembei was the father of the four youngest giraffe calves and was well-recognized by his dark coloration at giraffe feedings.