NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Just days before the unveiling of its newly designed mermaid statue, the Virginia Zoo is expressing deep sorrow over the loss of two animals.
On Saturday, the zoo announced in a Facebook post that its two Watusi cattle, Kamau and Gamba, passed away.
Due to genetic factors, the cattle’s horns grew in a more horizontal direction rather than vertically. In turn, it caused an untreatable head tilt that led to long-term health and physical issues.
The zoo’s veterinary and animal care staff had to humanely euthanize Kamau in July and Gamba yesterday as their quality of life declined rapidly.
The cattle’s keeper Toni shared in remembrance that they enjoyed scratches from their care team and didn’t hesitate to remind staff when it was time for dinner.