The aged giraffe had been suffering from chronic osteoarthritis. Despite months of treatment including specialist medications and daily massage it was clear the animal was in pain and increasingly unable to walk properly. Sadly the difficult decision was made to end her suffering.

Perth Zoo’s Curator of Life Sciences, John Lemon, said: “It was a very hard decision but the right decision to make. The ongoing health and welfare of our animals is our number one priority.”

“There was no prospect of recovery, it was clear she was in discomfort and we owed it to Misha to give her a dignified end to her life,” said John.

Misha was one of the most famous giraffe in the world. The image ‘The Kiss’ captured by the West Australian newspaper 20 years ago of her tending to her male calf ‘Makulu’ resonated around the world.

“She is immortalised in that iconic picture and it helped raise the profile of Perth Zoo and the endangered Rothschild Giraffe,” said John.

Misha was born in July 1990 at Orana Wildlife Park in New Zealand before moving to Perth Zoo in 1991. She made a significant contribution to safeguarding a future for her species, giving birth to seven calves during her lifetime.

“Her impact cannot be underestimated. Makulu the male offspring captured with her in ‘The Kiss’ has 58 descendants, her lineage extends all over the world,” said John.

The average age expectancy for giraffe in the wild is approximately 17 years of age, although they can live longer in zoos due to a lack of predation and expert care.

“Just as the Perth Zoo family are mourning, we understand that Misha held a special place in the hearts of the community,” said John “For those wishing to mark her passing we would ask you to consider a donation to Perth Zoo’s conservation fund in lieu of flowers.”

“This will ensure Misha’s legacy continues as all those funds are directed to saving animals in the wild,” said John.

You can donate to Misha’s legacy and help us save wildlife by visiting our Donations page.