The Situation at Kyiv Zoo
Kyiv Zoo has refuted a false claim about a recent giraffe death, which was spread by local Telegram channels citing a statement from Andriy Vitrenko, head of the Kyiv City Council's budget commission. The zoo clarified that the giraffes that died in 2022 and 2023 were of a venerable age—22 and 23 years old. According to zoo data, giraffes in captivity typically live up to 17 years, making their lifespan notably long.
Zoo management stated that for the last four years, the giraffes had been receiving special medications to support their health. Kyiv Zoo's General Director, Kyrylo Trantin, emphasized that the animals were under special supervision and called on deputies to show more conscience in their public statements:
“Our animals were 22-23 years old. That is a venerable age. In zoo conditions, giraffes live up to 17 years. Our charges lived significantly longer because we cared for them and provided very meticulous care.”
Kyrylo Trantin, General Director of Kyiv Zoo
There are currently no giraffes at Kyiv Zoo. Trantin explained that due to the war, importing new animals makes no sense, as they could suffer from shelling. He also noted the need to build a new facility to house the animals:
“Yes, there are currently no giraffes at the zoo because the war continues. It makes no sense to bring in new animals, as they would suffer from shelling.”
Kyrylo Trantin, General Director of Kyiv Zoo
In related news, the zoo reported the recovery of a muntjac deer named Mo, who was injured by enemy shelling in early November 2025. His broken jaw has healed, and he is now raising a newborn fawn with his mate, a muntjac named Milu. This incident highlights the direct impact the ongoing conflict has on wildlife in Ukraine.
Challenges for Zoos in Ukraine
This situation underscores the difficult conditions under which Ukrainian zoos currently operate, especially within the context of war. The absence of giraffes at Kyiv Zoo is a result not only of the animals' age but also of the direct threat posed by the conflict. At the same time, the recovery of muntjac Mo serves as an example of how zoos continue to work and care for their charges despite the immense challenges they face.
It emphasizes the importance of species preservation and providing proper animal care even under the most complex and dangerous circumstances.
In light of the ongoing challenges faced by wildlife in Ukraine, it's worth noting the recent recovery of a muntjac deer named Mo, who was injured during shelling. This incident underscores the significant impact of the conflict on the zoo's animals. To learn more about Mo's journey and the birth of his fawn, visit the detailed report on this remarkable recovery here.