The Perth zoo has announced the sad passing away of its popular Asian Elephant, Tricia, saying she died from age-related complications.
At 65 years old, Tricia (pictured) was among the oldest elephants in the world and the oldest being cared for by a zoo in Australasia.
The zoo said Tricia’s health and welfare had been monitored closely for some time by veterinarians and her dedicated elephant keepers, but her health status was deteriorating as evidenced by her lack of sleep and mobility issues.
“Tricia’s final moments were peaceful,” the zoo said.
“She was surrounded by her carers in her night quarters on Wednesday evening, 6 July, 2022.”
The Perth Zoo asked that the community not send flowers, but rather help create a lasting legacy for this extraordinary animal.
Premier Mark McGowan gave his best wishes to the popular elephant and the zoo crew who knew her best.
“Tricia wasn’t just well-known, she was well-loved,” the Premier said.
“Her stature and her grace were compelling. For many, she was a Perth icon.”
He said that for six decades she had been 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,” Mr McGowan said.
“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.”
Minister for the Environment, Reece Whitby said it was 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,” Mr Whitby said.
“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.”
The zoo announced that a Tricia Tribute to Conservation Fund had 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,” it said.
“A special memorial walk will also open to the public at Perth Zoo on Sunday 10 July giving the community the opportunity to pay their respects and learn more about Tricia’s impact as a conservation ambassador.”
