• Perth Zoo icon at peace after rapid health decline
• 65 year old Asian elephant was one of the oldest elephants in the world
• A memorial walk will open to the public on Sunday July 10, 2022

 
Tricia the Asian Elephant is at peace after she passed away at Perth Zoo following age-related complications. 

At 65 years old, she was among the oldest elephants in the world and the oldest being cared for by a zoo in Australasia.

Tricia’s health and welfare had been monitored closely for some time by veterinarians and her dedicated elephant keepers, but her health status recently deteriorated as evidenced by her lack of sleep and mobility issues.

Tricia’s final moments were peaceful. She was surrounded by her carers in her night quarters on Wednesday evening, July 6, 2022.

Perth Zoo asks that the community do not send flowers, but rather help create a lasting legacy for this extraordinary animal.

The Tricia Tribute to Conservation Fund has been established to support the conservation work of Perth Zoo and build an elephant guard post in the Bukit Tigapuluh ecosystem in Sumatra in Tricia’s name. This will help conservationists monitor and protect one of the last remaining wild herds of Sumatran Elephants.

A special memorial walk will also open to the public at Perth Zoo on Sunday July 10, 2022, giving the community the opportunity to pay their respects and learn more about Tricia’s impact as a conservation ambassador.

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

“Tricia wasn’t just well-known, she was well-loved.

“Her stature and her grace were compelling. For many, she was a Perth icon.

“For six decades, she was an integral part of any visit to Perth Zoo.

“If you lived in Perth at some point in your life then you probably have a memory of Tricia.

“I want to acknowledge and thank all the staff at Perth Zoo who have been humanely caring for Tricia, particularly during the rapid decline in her health.

“Tricia brought such joy to so many people, which is why it was important that in her final moments she was treated with love, dignity and respect.”

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Reece Whitby:

“It’s an incredibly sad day for the Perth Zoo family and the wider Western Australian community.

“Tricia was an iconic and treasured piece of our State’s identity, and she touched the lives of many over her 65 years.

“I would like to pass on my condolences to the passionate keepers, veterinarians and zoo staff who cared for Tricia. I understand this must be a very difficult time, so thank you for your dedication and commitment.

“As an ambassador animal, Tricia had a monumental impact on the conservation of her species and it’s heart-warming to see this continue after her passing.

“I would encourage everyone to honour Tricia and say farewell by visiting the memorial walk or to share memories of Tricia online on Perth Zoo’s website.”

Media contact: Clint Thomas 0427 727 594 or 6552 6300