The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans announced today the passing of Panya, a beloved 55-year-old female Asian elephant. Audubon veterinary and animal care staff made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize her following a steep decline in her health due to kidney disease, according to the Zoo’s website.
In the final stages of her illness, Panya received hospice care at Audubon Zoo, during which her condition was monitored closely and every effort was made to maintain her comfort. Once it became clear that the condition was irreversible and her quality of life was being impacted, Audubon’s expert veterinary and animal care staff decided that the most humane course of action was to say goodbye to Panya.
“Panya was such an iconic member of the New Orleans community-she inspired a lifelong passion for wildlife and conservation in generations of Zoo visitors,” said Audubon Nature Institute President and CEO Ron Forman. “She leaves behind an incredible legacy that will be felt far beyond her lifetime.”
