Taipei Zoo

The Taipei Zoo’s 42-year-old African elephant, Meidai, passed away this evening (June 6).

Since February this year (2025), the care and veterinary teams observed an abnormal gait in Meidai’s left forelimb. After diagnosis, conservative treatment was initiated, along with persistent administration of joint-support medication and behavioral monitoring. However, on Tuesday of this week (June 3), Meidai began exhibiting unusual emotional and behavioral responses, including signs of tension and retreating, accompanied by an elevated body temperature. The veterinary team promptly administered antibiotics in response.

On the morning of June 6, Meidai showed signs of dehydration, and her body temperature remained high. The veterinarians immediately administered intravenous fluids to replenish water and electrolytes. However, during the course of treatment, Meidai suddenly sat down and was no longer able to stand up on her own. The veterinary and animal care teams urgently mobilized dozens of additional personnel to assist her in standing again. Despite repeated efforts, her condition did not improve, and her physical strength declined rapidly.

After consulting international elephant experts from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and urgently reviewing all relevant information, it was confirmed that Meidai could no longer regain normal physiological function. Continued treatment would only have prolonged her suffering. After careful evaluation, the decision was made to proceed with humane euthanasia, allowing her to leave this world with dignity.

Thank you, Meidai, for the time you spent with us.